Axel, the much-loved Bichon-Poo adopted by Andy Burnham and his wife from Dogs Trust Shrewsbury in 2017
A Paw-sitive Influence: Dogs Trust Hopes Burnham’s Rescue Dog Axel Inspires A Brighter Future For Dogs
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While Andy Burnham embarks on a new chapter as Prime Minister, animal welfare enthusiasts are hoping his four-legged companion, Axel – a Dogs Trust rescue dog – inspires some tail-waggingly good animal welfare policies too.
Axel, the much-loved Bichon-Poo adopted by Andy Burnham and his wife from Dogs Trust Shrewsbury in 2017, spent just 12 days in Dogs Trust's care before finding his forever home with the Burnham family in Greater Manchester. When Axel arrived at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury as a puppy, he quickly charmed staff with his friendly and affectionate personality.
Nearly a decade later, his journey from rescue dog to beloved family pet is a reminder of why giving dogs a second chance matters.
Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, hopes Axel's happy ending will encourage the Prime Minister to take forward ambitious and coordinated action to improve dog welfare including through driving progress on the Government’s Animal Welfare Strategy. From banning electric shock collars to cracking down on the illegal puppy trade, there are many areas where the incoming Prime Minister can make a difference for dogs.
The charity also hopes he will back the new Dog Ownership Guide (DOG), developed by Dogs Trust and the RSPCA, which encourages owners to follow simple, practical guidance to become the best and most responsible dog owners possible.
After all, with a Dogs Trust rescue dog keeping an eye on things at home, there's every reason to hope dogs remain firmly on the political agenda.
Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust, said:
‘’Axel has come a long way since Andy Burnham adopted him from Dogs Trust in 2017 and we are delighted to see what an important pooch he has become.
We also hope the Prime Minister will use his new role to champion policies that improve dog welfare and help build a better future for dogs and their owners across the UK.
Fingers crossed that Axel’s story will inspire more people to consider adopting a rescue dog and give another pet the chance to find their own happy ever after.’’
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