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Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s veterinary hospital to be named after Paul O’Grady
O’Grady had been an ambassador for the charity for over a decade
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has announced it’s naming its veterinary hospital after Paul O’Grady, who was an ambassador for the charity for 10 years before his death.
The TV star who was known for his love of animals passed away in March this year at the age of 67. He helped raise awareness of Battersea through his award-winning series For the love of Dogs – with the charity making him an ambassador.
Since his passing, a huge £480,000 has been raised in his name to donate to the charity which helps rescue animals, nurse them back to health and find them a loving home.
The charity said it would be spending the funds on ‘life-saving and transformative medical procedures’ for the dogs and cats that require specialist care and treatment.
Now the rescue charity will name its hospital after the star to honour all the good work he did.
Five other charities that the national treasure held close to his heart will also be receiving £20,000.
O’Grady’s husband Andre Portasio said: “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.
“I know that Paul would have been pleased to know that the most disadvantaged animals that he was so fond of championing are getting the love and support they deserve.”
O’Grady posthumously won the factual entertainment award for The Love of Dogs at the 2023 National Television Awards, honouring his years of work and contributions.
Peter Laurie, chief executive of Battersea, said: “Paul was always a champion of the underdog, and we’ll be carrying on his legacy, by ensuring we use the funding to go the extra mile for animals that need costly surgery, medication or rehabilitation.”
O’Grady’s contribution towards animal welfare was also recognised with an RSPCA animal hero award back in 2018 at the NTAs for the incredible impact his show had on helping find homes for rescued animals nationwide.