Paul O’Grady left £500,000 to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in will

Paul O’Grady left £500,000 for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in his will, it has been revealed.

The late beloved TV star set aside half a million pounds to the animal rescue centre as well as a further £775,000 to organisations close to his heart, according to a report.

The comedian and broadcaster also set aside £125,000 to look after his five pet dogs, as well as £50,000 for elephant and orangutan charities, and the same amount to The Salvation Army.

O’Grady, who passed away last March at the age of 67, was a well-known animal lover who was a leading advocate for finding permanent loving homes for cats and dogs.

He supported numerous animal rights campaigns including banning fur in Britain.

O’Grady presented ITV’s award-winning documentary series For The Love Of Dogs, which followed Paul as he met every dog which came into the home in need of treatment, training and a new home.

The animal-loving nation fell in love with the show as they met each doggo and their own personal tale.

Speaking to the Sun, a close friend of Paul’s said: “This is typical of Paul as he put his money where his mouth was by leaving cash to charities that had special meaning to him.

“And though £125,000 seems like a lot of money to spend on his dogs, they also meant the world to him and he wanted to ensure they always receive the best love and care.”

Also speaking to the publication, Peter Laurie, Battersea Chief Executive, said: “Battersea is truly overwhelmed and deeply grateful to be remembered by our late friend and Ambassador, Paul, in his will.

“This further shows what we knew to be true of Paul during his life, his unwavering commitment and devotion to helping the thousands of animals that arrive at our centres every year.

“Working alongside our staff to look after the dogs and cats that need our support, Paul was able to see the unconditional care, support and expertise that goes into helping the animals both at our centres and beyond.

“Many of our animals arrive with complex medical conditions and it can take many weeks for some of them to find homes; as a champion for the underdog we know that Paul would have left his gift to Battersea with these animals in mind.”

Adding: “Battersea will forever be indebted to Paul for all that he did for our charity and the animals in our care and we’ll be carrying on his legacy, continuing to go the extra mile and helping many more dogs and cats receive their much deserved second chance in life.” 

Last October Battersea announced its veterinary hospital would be named after O’Grady, to honour the work he had done for them and all his years of support.

His contributions to animal welfare was also recognised by the RSPCA with an animal hero award. And Peta named him its person of the year for making the world ‘a kinder place for animals’.

The majority of O’Grady’s estate is expected to go to his widower Andre Portasio, his daughter Sharon Mousley and his sister Sheila Rudd. 

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