A Kensal Rise animal home is urging loving families to consider adopting “perfect companions” like Staffy dog Tia who was left homeless after her previous owner died.

The Mayhew Animal home in Trenmar Gardens is encouraging animal lovers to consider taking on homeless animals as part of their ‘Give a Pet a Chance’ campaign.

Staffy- Whippet cross Tia arrived at the Mayhew in August after her owner died and is described as “one of the sweetest dogs you’re likely to meet.”

The six-year-old pooch builds strong bonds and loves “everyone and anyone”.

She likes to communicate by making little grunting noises- especially after a relaxing walk in the park and a play with her prized toy crocodile.

This month the Mayhew are featuring a number of their star residents as part of a campaign aimed at bringing down the 9 million total of homeless cats and dogs in the UK.

Aspiring pet-owners are encouraged to adopt pets rather than buying this spring.

Staff at the Mayhew are also advising Brent residents to thoroughly consider the financial and time commitments of having a pet before heading out to find a new member of the family.

Caroline Yates, chief executive of the Mayhew Animal Home, said: “With the huge volume of homeless cats and dogs that come into our charity every year, it’s vitally important that we ensure pet owners understand the responsibilities of owning a pet.”

“Most of the unwanted pets have originated either from breeders or were purchased via pet shops or online, or were rehomed with a friend, family or through word of mouth. Owners have then realised that a pet requires significant investment including food, regular exercise, veterinary treatment, pet insurance and holiday care. Taking on a pet needs a lot of thought as it should be a lifelong commitment to that animal.”

“We find loving homes for hundreds of dogs and cats every year and we urge those thinking about getting a pet to adopt rather than shop. Your perfect companion is waiting, not only at our facility, but at facilities across the country.”

So far this year The Mayhew Animal Home has rehomed 416 cats, 90 dogs, reunited 63 dogs with their owners and helped an impressive 1327 animals in the community.

For more information about The Mayhew Animal Home’s Give a Pet a Chance adoption campaign, please head to themayhew.org/giveapetachanceadopt or find out whether you are ready to be a responsible pet owner at themayhew.org/responsible-pet-ownership-checklist.

If you are interested in adopting Tia or any of the Mayhew’s cats and dogs please visit themayhew.org or call 0208 962 8009.