VE Day Reflections from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre: Wartime Stories from the Archives

As the nation marks Victory in Europe (VE) Day, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been diving deep into its archives to reflect on the remarkable role the charity played during the Second World War.

Founded in 1887 as The Bristol Home for Lost & Starving Dogs, the organisation has seen the city through its most difficult times, including the Blitz. During WWII, the centre temporarily cared for the pets of Bristolians who had lost their homes to bombings or who were struggling to cope amid wartime hardship.

One touching story shared at the time by the Lord Mayor involved a young boy who had been severely injured during an air raid, losing his arm. His greatest heartbreak, however, was the loss of his beloved dog. Days later, the dog was found and brought to his hospital bedside. Their reunion was described as “pathetic” in the most moving sense, and marked the beginning of the boy’s emotional recovery.

Despite suffering some air raid damage of its own, the centre continued its vital work throughout the war. Volunteers remained steadfast in their duties, providing care and comfort not only to animals, but indirectly, to their owners in times of distress.

The team also uncovered original boarding records from the era, revealing the weekly cost of care:

  • Large dogs: 6/- to 10/6
  • Small dogs and cats: 5/-

To close the commemorations, the charity shared a poignant poem from its archives titled “Angel Dog,” capturing the deep bond between people and their dogs, bonds that endured even in the darkest times. The poem speaks of a dog waiting patiently at heaven’s gate for his master, a reminder of the emotional lifelines animals represent.

“The little dog angel’s eager bark / Will comfort his soul in the shivering dark.”

Chief Executive Mike Coe said “Our history is full of powerful stories like these. As we remember VE Day, we also honour the quiet acts of care, compassion, and resilience that helped carry Bristol through the war. And just like then, we remain committed to supporting animals and the people who love them no matter the circumstances.”