Earlier this month, we were delighted to see our Patron, The Duchess of Sussex,  during a private visit where we caught up about our progress, upcoming work and the year ahead.

We were pleased to be able to show The Duchess our brand new kennels, which we unveiled in September last year. Our refurbished kennels provide a safer and more fit for purpose environment for our animals and staff, and will significantly improve the experience of dogs in our care – as well as improving the working conditions for Mayhew team members, students, volunteers and guests on site.

We did not expand the number of kennels because our primary aim is still to reduce the number of animals needing to be rehomed, which we do through proactive community initiatives and preventative care. Each animal now has more personal space, and our staff, students and volunteers have benefited from an upgraded intake room , kitchen, storage  and office facilities – making it easier and safer for them to admit and access the animals in their care.

The team also introduced The Duchess to Khan, a German Shepherd, who is currently staying with us as part of our Pet Refuge programme. Through this programme, we provide shelter and care for the pets of people in crisis for short periods of time. This could be due to an owner being hospitalised, going to rehab or needing respite for example. For many people facing a personal crisis, our service is a lifeline. It keeps people and their pets together.

We look forward to continuing our work with our Patron this year to help more animals and people.