AN animal charity has paid to Paul O'Grady after the much-loved entertainer died.
A comedian, broadcaster, writer and drag queen, O'Grady died aged 67 on Tuesday evening.
He was also well-known for his love of animals, living in a Kent farmhouse with his husband Andre Portasio and a menagerie of pets including four dogs, goats, sheep, chickens and barn owls.
READ MORE: Comedian and presenter Paul O'Grady dies 'unexpectedly but peacefully' aged 67
O'Grady's affection for dogs was documented in his show, For the Love of Dogs, in which he highlighted the important work rescue charities do.
Paying tribute, Dogs Trust chief executive, Owen Sharp, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Paul O’Grady.
“Paul was a devoted dog lover, which shone through in his charity work and his television shows.
“He was a huge supporter, in particular, of dogs that were looking for their forever homes.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and dogs at this difficult time.”
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In honour of O’Grady’s work, the team at Dogs Trust Evesham has decided to try and help some of its golden oldies find their forever homes.
Manager, Chris Slight, said: “People are often drawn to younger dogs but there are advantages to welcoming an older dog into your life.
“For example, they are used to living in a home, usually know basic commands and are more than ready to settle straight back into enjoying their home comforts. Plus they don’t need house training like a young puppy!
“They also tend not to need as much exercise but of course still enjoy walks so if a few shorter walks rather than a hike are for you, an older dog could be your perfect match.
“Last but not least, their personalities are formed so what you see is what you get!”
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The average length of stay for a dog after arriving at Dogs Trust is just 47 days but older dogs often find themselves waiting much longer.
That is certainly true of eight-year-old Lurcher Cross, Lacey, who has been waiting three years and Crossbreed Lexi, also eight, who has been cared for by the team since last May after her owner died.
At eleven, Staffordshire Bull Terrier Branston, is the oldest of the three, having arrived just last month.
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Mr Slight added: “Lexi and Lacey have enjoyed time in foster homes whilst they have been with us and they proved to be the perfect houseguests and Branston is currently loving life with a foster carer, enjoying all his home comforts.
“Previous adopters of older dogs tell us that knowing they have given a senior dog a peaceful and loving home after they have had to leave behind everything they’ve ever known, is a heart-warming feeling which can’t be matched.
“We are confident Lexi, Lacey and Branston will settle in with their new families really quickly, we just hope they’re not waiting too much longer.”
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