The presenter served as an ambassador for the charity.
Battersea has paid tribute to its former ambassador Paul O’Grady by naming a veterinary hospital in his honour.
The Paul O’Grady Veterinary Hospital will mean that the comedian and television presenter continues to be closely associated with the charity.
O’Grady presented 11 series of the award-winning documentary For the Love of Dogs, which shone a light on the rescue animals at Battersea.
The charity has also announced how it will spend the money raised by a tribute fund set up following the passing of the popular comedian and television presenter in March. A total of £480,000 was donated to Battersea by members of the public.
As well as funding life-saving and transformative veterinary treatment for animals in the charity’s care, five other animal welfare charities supported by O’Grady will benefit from the donations.
StreetVet, for which O’Grady was also an ambassador, will be receiving a share of the fund, as will RSPCA Ashford Garden Cattery. The cattery was close to the broadcaster’s home in Kent and he served as its president.
The other three charities to benefit are based in Merseyside, where O’Grady grew up. They are Freshfields Animal Rescue, Carla Lane Animals in Need, and The Oldies Club.
Each of the five charities will receive £20,000.
Peter Laurie, chief executive of Battersea, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed and deeply touched by the generous donations from thousands of people following the death of our beloved ambassador, Paul O’Grady. It really is a testament to how loved Paul was, and we shall always be forever grateful for everything he did for us.”
Paul’s husband Andre Portasio added: “Seeing how loved Paul was by so many has been truly touching. Paul was so passionate in his support of rescue animals, and it gives me some comfort to know that through the hard work and commitment of Battersea and other charities Paul’s legacy will live on.
“I know that Paul would have been pleased to know that the most disadvantaged animals he was so fond of championing are getting the love and support they deserve.”
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Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
