Scottish SPCA and Erskine Veterans Charity come together to honour veterans and animals of war 

To mark Remembrance Day, the Scottish SPCA and Erskine Veterans Charity have come together to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of veterans and the vital role animals have played in times of war. 

In a special ceremony at Erskine Veterans Village Remembrance Garden representatives from both charities laid a commemorative wreath honouring both military personnel and the animals who served alongside them. The event also celebrated the growing partnership between the two organisations, which is bringing comfort and companionship to veterans while helping rescue animals gain confidence and socialisation. 

Since July, residents from Erskine’s care homes have been visiting the Scottish SPCA’s Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre every week. These visits provide opportunities for veterans to spend time with cats and dogs, helping the animals to build trust and socialise while offering the veterans joy, routine and a sense of companionship. 

The initiative has been warmly received by participants, who have described it as calming and joyful. 

Bill Turner, who served as Cold War Intelligence in Berlin, said: “Being with the animals is great for us. It is also great to help the animals in the centre and see them coming round to us as they build their confidence. Going to the centre is great as it is very calming for me and it is great to hear the stories from the staff about the animals.” 

The veterans’ village has also offered a space where the Scottish SPCA can bring dogs to visit, giving an opportunity to those veterans who are unable to travel to the centre. 

Both charities hope to expand the project in 2026 so more veterans can take part in the initiative. Work is also underway to create a new allotment area at the Glasgow centre, with planters built by the veterans’ village. The space will allow veterans to get involved in other activities, growing herbs and vegetables to help feed some of the small animals in care. 

Jimmy Bowes, an RAF veteran, and his wife, Mary Bowes said: “The partnership has been great, and we absolutely love our time with the animals. We have had animals all our life from dogs to cats and small animals. So, this was a wonderful thing for us to be able to spend time with the animals.” 

The Scottish SPCA’s connection to the Armed Forces dates back more than a century. During World War I, 21 members of staff enlisted, of which one was killed and seven were wounded. The Society also contributed to the fund for wounded army horses and provided its horse ambulance to the army, which was used more than 60 times in 1914 alone. 

In World War II, half the inspectorate served, during which nine temporary inspectors over the military age were appointed to cover their absence. 

If anyone is concerned about an animal’s welfare, they are encouraged to call the charity’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.  To report any act of cruelty, visit our website here.