British Star David Morrissey Adopts A Shelter Dog

He’s portrayed Colonel Brandon in a Masterpiece adaptation of Sense & Sensibility, Colonel John Arbuthnot in a TV version of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express and a would-be Time Lord on Doctor Who, and now British star David Morrissey has taken on the real life role of pet parent.

An appearance on an ITV breakfast program with RSPCA Sheffield Animal Centre manager Steve Byrne set the wheels in motion for a visit to RSPCA Sheffield by the actor and his family. The star stated: “Both my wife and I had dogs growing up and we wanted that for our children. Meeting Steve and the dogs he brought in to Daybreak that day prompted me to talk it over with the family and we agreed to go for it.”

While at the animal center, David Morrissey instantly fell in puppy love with a 4-month-old Collie mix who began life as the last of a litter of unwanted pups, but–after a successful home visit– now lives in the lap of luxury. Dubbed Billy by the staff at RSPCA Sheffield, the Rover has retained the name at his new home in homage to his famous father’s first television role as Billy Rigley in the 5-part series One Summer. Morrissey said: “It was meant to be I think. The fact that we’ve been able to give Billy a second chance is great too. I’d urge anyone thinking of getting a dog to go to the RSPCA.”

Protecting our pawed pals since 1824, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) improves the welfare of wildlife, farm animals and pets.

For more information:

• visit www.rspca.org.uk
• visit RSPCA Sheffield at www.rspcasheffield.org

Photo Credit: Amy Evans

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