Local frontline NHS workers take time out their busy lives to help dogs in need

Local NHS workers are seeking donations for Birmingham’s Dog Home this year in the run-up to Christmas.

Timothy Loveridge, 35, from Dudley, and his partner Bethany Ruscoe, 27, have not only been working on the frontline in their respective departments during the pandemic but also finding time to help the homeless dogs in our city.

They asked their colleagues for donations of food (wet or dry), treats, toys, blankets, towels, washing powder, and shampoo and grooming items.

The couple has been collecting for the dog’s home for the last two years and this year made it into a little competition!

Timothy, an ED Practitioner in the Emergency Department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, has said: “There is a huge demand on the charity to offer the dogs the best care.

“We are big dog lovers and feel that they need as much help as any charity. Dogs can’t voice upset and concerns and when life hasn’t gone their way we have to be there as advocates so they can be cared for and loved.

“I would just like to thank The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and City Hospital and both Emergency Departments for all the work they have done through this pandemic and still be able to be so generous”

Beth, an ED Staff Nurse at City Hospital said: “We got our workplaces involved as we know that the fantastic staff we work with love dogs as much as we do, and want to help them too.

“We have had lots of donations from both trust’s showing that even when we are under so much pressure in our roles that we still have so much empathy, compassion and willingness to help at hard times”

Birmingham’s Dog Home was overwhelmed with the support and the donations: “The help and support that we have received from the NHS teams at City Hospital and QE have been amazing.

“During such a tough year for them to then think about our homeless dogs whilst they are helping people in hospital is just so thoughtful and everyone here is so grateful for their amazing generosity.

“We have just over 150 dogs in our care who will be enjoying their delicious food and opening their presents from tomorrow after Santa Paws has visited. A big thank you to everyone who helped with this donation.”