Since we welcomed our retired racing greyhound Nelli into our home last May our lives has been changed for the better. She really makes our house a home and we just wouldn't be without her. It's an amazing feeling to have given a dog from kennels a forever home. We got Nell from the Retired Greyhound Trust and had a fantastic experience with them. However the most famous dog rehoming centre has to be Battersea dog home.
On Sunday 7th September 2014 we headed to Battersea Park in London for the 20th annual dog reunion. All dogs were welcome to join in and raise money for Battersea.
It took us about an hour and a quarter to drive down. Nell was very good in the car however when we arrived Nell was very apprehensive. I think the large open space and loud noises of children playing and kicking balls around was a bit much for her. I also think it reminded her of her racing days which brings back a lot of anxiety for her.
The first thing we did was sit down and have much needed cup of tea. Nelli even had the left over tea which alongside a few treats definitely helped her relax.
Then we headed the main arena ring area We watched the first competition of the day which was the golden oldies. Competitions cost £2 to enter and were just a laugh and a way to raise money for Battersea. The winner of the golden oldies was an 18 year old staffie called Nugget who was adorable.
By this time Nelli had relaxed and loved sniffing all of the dogs there. We met loads of dogs and even a few other greyhounds and whippets. Rob fell in love with two massive Saint Bernards.
There were other competitions too. We didn't bother entering Nelli into the prettiest lady competition as we know she would win anyway!
We also had a nosey around the various stalls selling doggie treats and accessories.
There were also little obstacle runs that you could pay a small fee to enter and then if you got the fastest time you would win a prize. Nell watched the other dogs quite intently.
We settled down on the picnic blanket and ate hot dogs.
There was also a little show of some of the dogs that are currently in Battersea and need a home. It took a lot of self restraint not to take them all home.
Before leaving we took a family selfie and donated our change in the Battersea buckets. It was a fantastic day and it always feels amazing to support a charity close to your heart.
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