Britain's pet charity launches first petcast

Animal charity The Blue Cross has launched its first ever ‘petcast’ – a podcast featuring animal-loving actor Martin Freeman.

Martin, best known for his role as Tim in The Office, talks passionately about his love for his rescue dog, Archie, and his support for the work of animal welfare organisations like The Blue Cross.

“Archie was the last in his litter…  He was adorable and irresistible, so we had to give him a home and I’m very glad we did.” said Martin.  “If you’re lucky enough to have an animal that is well-tempered and relatively well-behaved (and not too violently disturbed!) then it can’t help but bring more warmth, more love and more affection into the house, which is after all the reason we’re here, isn’t it?”

The charity’s first petcast was sent out on Thursday 5 April to 75,000 Blue Cross supporters, as part of the charity’s e-newsletter, Pawprint.  It is also be available to download from the Blue Cross website at www.bluecross.org.uk/petcasts, and on several leading podcast sites. 

The Blue Cross is planning a series of petcasts involving more household names, such as Colin and Justin from the TV series How not to decorate and TV vet, Joe Inglis.  The charity hopes to reach new and existing supporters by using this latest technology to communicate the benefits of having a pet and the need for responsible animal ownership.

To listen to the first Blue Cross petcast featuring Martin Freeman, please follow this link: www.bluecross.org.uk/petcasts.

Media contact: Laura Dobson
Direct line: 0207 932 4065
Mobile: 07917 132 698

Note to editors
The Blue Cross provides 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.