Animals in war commemorated

Laura Poole, a veterinary nurse from the country’s oldest charitable animal hospital, marks the sacrifice made by animals in wars at the Animals in War memorial on Park Lane.

With Laura is Chris Samsa and his dog Ripley. The shih tzu is one of the nominees for The Blue Cross Medal, reinstated for one year only to mark the centenary of The Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria. Ripley works as a therapy dog with ill children at Great Ormond Street Hospital and has contributed greatly to the recovery of very sick children.

The Blue Cross is part of a coalition of animal charities that have supported the Animals in War memorial in recognition of the veterinary care the charity provided for the thousands of horses and dogs that worked on the front line who were on the front line during the two World Wars.

The charity will be accepting animal nominations for the Medal until 17 November. Nominees must have come to the aid of a human or animal life, shown outstanding bravery, or been part of a life changing partnership. Nominations can be made through the website www.bluecross.org.uk.

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Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.