Football plea to kick off ‘endless joy’ for dogs at Battersea Old Windsor

Battersea Dogs and Cats home in Old Windsor has appealed for donations of spare footballs to help its canine residents join in the summer of sport.

As the Lionesses gear up for a European Cup final, the centre hopes to give its dogs — each with their own 'varying footie skills' — a chance to play ball too. 

Donations can be dropped off at the Old Windsor centre’s main reception in Priest Hill, or email bowreception@battersea.org.uk to find out more.

Rehoming and welfare manager Tracey Curren said: “Footballs are a fantastic way for our Battersea dogs to burn off energy, stay mentally stimulated and enjoy healthy physical exercise.

“We have lots of dogs with varying ‘footie’ skills so we would love donations of footballs of all sizes and condition.

“Whether the footballs are brand new or have seen a few back-garden penalties, every football will bring endless joy to the dogs in our care from our energetic lurchers who want to show off their zoomies, to terrific terriers who fancy themselves as midfield maestros.”'

Battersea cared for 2,766 dogs and 2,454 cats across its three centres – in London, Brands Hatch and Old Windsor – during 2024.

More information about its work can be found online.