Images by Tom Poole and Adam Davy
For this year’s National Dog Adoption Day, occurring on the 25th October, York City FC and key sponsors Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka have joined forces with York’s RSPCA shelter to encourage football fans across the nation to adopt dogs in need of homes.
Walking around the pitch with players, the dogs soaked up the atmosphere of the ground and potentially found themselves a new owner, with details of each pet, and how to adopt them, featured in the matchday programme.
Dutch Barn Vodka, co-owned by renowned animal lover Ricky Gervais who played just down the road at the York Barbican on the same night, are supporting the initiative through their sponsorship with the club.
The initiative strives to underline the close-knit community in York, as the city comes together to work towards a good cause.
Fans are encouraged to find out more about the work of the RSPCA, and spread the initiative beyond York, with the city becoming a catalyst for a nationwide increase in pet adoptions.
Matt and Julie-Anne Uggla, owners of The Minstermen remarked that “it’s brilliant to be a part of something so important in our city. We strive to impress on the pitch, but we also want to ensure that the club remains a pillar of the community in York, so we’re thrilled to engage in this partnership and can’t wait to see dog adoption numbers climb because of it.”
Likewise, Peter Gorbert, Branch Manager at RSPCA York, Harrogate & District Branch described the positive impact the campaign will have on adoption numbers, noting “it’s great these local businesses have come together to support Dog Adoption Day, at a time when the need to be adopting dogs has never been greater.
“We have seen the numbers of dogs coming into rescues increase dramatically over the last few years. All animal rescues are full with hundreds of dogs desperate for spaces in those centres.
“Initiatives like this that can help animals looking for their forever home reach new audiences makes a big difference. We were really pleased to be invited down to the stadium to show off some of our recently rehomed dogs and those still waiting for that perfect match.
“Hopefully we’ll see lots of people heading to our website at half-time to fill in their adoption requests!”
Avneet Kalsi, Brand Manager at Dutch Barn Vodka told us that “strong ethical values are fundamental to who we are. Our commitment to doing good extends from using eco-friendly materials like recycled glass in our bottles, to supporting impactful initiatives that resonate with our principles.
“Partnering with the Minstermen and the RSPCA for Dog Adoption Day is a natural fit, aligning with our goal to make a positive difference—not just through sustainable practices, but by supporting meaningful causes in our community.
“We hope this initiative encourages more people to adopt rescue dogs and provide them with the loving homes they deserve”.
Find out more about RSPCA York, Harrogate & District Branch by visiting their website.
