Paul O’Grady honoured by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Paul O’Grady has been honoured by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, with the animal rescue centre naming their veterinary hospital after the late comedian.
The broadcaster, who passed away in March at the age of 67, was renowned for his work on animal rights and became an ambassador at Battersea in 2012.
He filmed 11 series of his show For The Love of Dogs at the rescue centre, starting in 2012, with the final series having aired in September.
The London-based charity, one of the best known animal rescue centres in the UK, announced the honouring of O’Grady’s legacy today (October 16), with chief executive Peter Laurie releasing a statement.
Related: Paul O'Grady receives a posthumous nomination at the 2023 NTAs
“It really is a testament to how loved Paul was, and we shall always be forever grateful for everything he did for us,” he said (via BBC News). “As an ambassador for Battersea, especially during his 11 years filming For The Love of Dogs, Paul helped animals in their recuperation from surgery.
“At times, [he] watched as they headed off site for specialist surgery, [so] naming our veterinary hospital after Paul feels fitting. Paul was always a champion of the underdog, and we'll be carrying on his legacy.”
André Portasio, whom O’Grady married in 2017, also released a statement following the announcement, saying: “Paul was so passionate in his support of rescue animals, and it gives me some comfort to know that through the hard work and commitment of Battersea and other charities Paul's legacy will live on.
Related: Bradley Walsh pays tribute to Paul O'Grady as Blankety Blank returns
“Seeing how loved Paul was by so many has been truly touching. I know that Paul would have been pleased to know that the most disadvantaged animals he was so fond of championing are getting the love and support they deserve.”
Following O’Grady’s passing, Battersea set up a tribute fund to commemorate his work, with the donations totalling £480,000. Some proceeds of the fund are being donated to other organisations that were close to O’Grady’s heart, including StreetVet, RSPCA Ashford Garden Cattery, and The Oldies in his hometown Liverpool.
You Might Also Like
