A Winter’s Tail: Pioneering new RSPCA partnership brings dogs in from the cold

The Warm Welcome Campaign has partnered with the RSPCA in a pioneering initiative to help dogs and their owners escape the winter chill.

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Under the scheme, pet-owners can find dog-friendly free spaces, where they can take their canine companions along and shelter from the cold.

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Many dog-owners regard their four-legged friend as their closest friend - and would rather remain in a freezing house or flat than leave them behind by venturing out to seek warmth elsewhere.

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Now, thanks to this new partnership, they will not have to face that tough decision. Warm Welcome Spaces have been the option of declaring themselves “dog-friendly” when they register with our Campaign.

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Nearly 190 organisations in the network across the UK have already signed up to provide a cosy welcome for people who would hate to be separated from their dogs. Pet owners can find participating spaces by searching on the Warm Welcome Campaign website - and can filter specifically for dog-friendly locations and those which are child-friendly, have wi-fi and charging facilities or provide refreshments.

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One such space is the Changing Lives Together – Buddy & Befriending Scheme, supporting those who are lonely and isolated in our communities.

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The Buddy and Befriending scheme supports adults across Cheshire who are experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Changing Lives Together believes that one of the most effective and simple solutions is giving people the opportunity to connect and talk.

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They say whether you'd prefer to get out and meet others at their warm welcome groups or you'd benefit from friendly telephone befriending support from the comfort of your own home, the space is there for you.

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Rosie is a therapy dog, and in the two years that Graham has attended with Rosie, she has never been heard to bark. Rosie comes in on her lead and sits beside Graham on the cushion he brings.

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Some of those who attend the group are frightened of dogs, so Graham is grateful that the dog is allowed to visit.

Rosie is treated every week to a sausage in her own dog bowl, and one lady asks permission to give her a dog biscuit!

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Graham said: "I love attending the group, but if I couldn't bring Rosie, I wouldn't have the confidence to come out - I go everywhere I can with her; she keeps me going."

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It’s just one example of a Warm Welcome Space that is dog-friendly.

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If your space is dog friendly, you can log into our dashboard and update your space details here.

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