Last week I left dark and gloomy London in sub zero temperatures to fly to Malta. Stepping off the plane to an unseasonably warm Mediterranean day marked the start of two very useful and inspiring days. I was travelling to this ancient and historical island accompanied by three of the Dogs Trust team – with the mission of setting some goals, targets and a strategy to help the islanders achieve their aims of happy, healthy, homed dogs and cats. Our hosts were the SPCA of Malta and more specifically their dynamic Chairman Barbara Cassar Torregiani and Jane Bannister-Grech. 

 A punishing but rewarding schedule had been arranged, criss-crossing the island to meet Ministers, teachers, fundraisers, volunteers and of course the dogs and cats.  It soon became apparent that Barbara and Jane are well recognised as voices of reason and knowledge as doors opened to us at a most senior level to discuss laws, the school curriculum, finances and companion animal welfare.  Visiting the shelter on the island it was extremely sad to see dogs, through no fault of their own, kennelled and waiting for a home.  Whilst the current housing at the shelter is a world away from the luxury conditions found at Dogs Trust centres, there was absolutely no doubt of the dedication of the staff and their ability to give the dogs the very best of care that their meagre funds will allow.

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I can’t quite believe that it was 30 years ago that I penned the words – A dog is for life not just for Christmas. At the time I had little idea that it would capture the public’s attention and become such a memorable slogan. I am delighted that the slogan’s message has been heeded as the number of dogs bought as gifts has reduced from 20% in 1978 to just 1.8% this year. However I’m not ready to retire the slogan just yet. 1.8% doesn’t sound much as a percentage but this could be as many as 131,400 dogs which is still far too many.

The old adage that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery seems to ring true with this slogan as I’ve been alerted to some amusing parodies over the years. Although our legal beagles are always straight on the phone to ensure our registered trademark is protected, I thought I’d share a selection of my favourites including one from the past few weeks:

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