Lost, unwanted, and abandoned dogs being cared for by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home have been preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Thirty rescue dogs including Staffies, Chihuahuas and Huskies have been selected to walk the red carpet for the charity’s spectacular Collars and Coats Gala Ball, which takes place on Friday 11 November at Evolution in Battersea Park. 

In preparation for their big night, the dogs are getting in some pampering so they can look their best. With help from event sponsors John Paul Pet the dogs will be groomed, clipped and bathed and ready to give a paw to guests including the charity’s President TRH Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, host for the night Peter Andre, and singer and Strictly contestant Lulu.

The glamour of the Collars & Coats Ball is a world away from the sad circumstances that have led many of these dogs to Battersea’s doors. In the last week alone, 60 strays have come into the charity’s care, and 39 have been given up by owners who can no longer care for them.*  

Claire Horton, Battersea’s Chief Executive, said: “The team here at Battersea are so excited about the ball, which is just over a week away now. We’re making sure our four-legged friends are getting involved in the action as well so that they can enjoy their moment in the spotlight as much as we will.”

“The Collars and Coats Gala Ball is a crucial way in which Battersea raises the money it needs to care for the thousands of stray, lost and abandoned dogs and cats which come through our doors. It costs us £14million every year to give these animals a second chance and, as we receive no Government funding, we rely on kind-hearted members of the public to support our work.”

Tickets for the Collars & Coats Gala Ball are available by calling 020 7627 9309 or visiting http://www.collarsandcoats.org.uk/. For further information log onto www.battersea.org.uk

*Photo Copyright © Battersea Dogs & Cats Home/JAM

Tags: Animal Charity, Awapoochi, Dogs, John Paul Pet, Pet Shampoo, Rescue