MADAM - As a patron of Dogs Trust, I’m writing to say a big thank you to players of People’s Postcode Lottery for the £175,000 award given to help the charity care for more stray, abandoned and unwanted dogs this year.

Dogs Trust looks after over 17,000 dogs of all shapes and sizes every year across its 21 rehoming centres. The average cost of caring for a dog over the course of a year is around £1,275 and this award will go towards providing vital care. This can include routine neutering and microchipping, vaccinations and other medical bills along with bedding, toys and the mileage costs of transporting dogs for rehoming. As Dogs Trust never puts a healthy dog to sleep, the charity makes additional efforts provide a comfortable, stimulating environment for the dogs to keep them happy in kennels whilst they await new homes. As a dog owner myself, I know how much love and companionship they can provide. If you’re missing some love in your life, and think you could have time to offer a home to a dog, please consider a rescue from Dogs Trust. Your local rehoming centre will be happy to help advise on the best dog for you.

John Barrowman

Proud owner of Captain Jack and Harris…oh, and entertainer