The Fifa Women’s World Cup kicks off this Thursday, July 20, in Australia and New Zealand, and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is showing its support for England’s Lionesses.
The animal welfare charity has named some of its furry residents after the team’s much-loved football stars to get into the sporting spirit.
It’s an effort to bring the team good luck as they play their first fixture this Saturday, July 22 against Haiti.
Sarina Wiegman’s side are following their success at Euro 2022, when they beat Germany in the final at Wembley.
But they will likely have to beat favourites USA, who have won the last two Women’s World Cups, the most recent in 2019, when they defeated the Netherlands in the final.
Lioness captain Millie Bright is being honoured by two-month-old puppy Millie.
The loveable furball is showing her colours for England this summer, and has world-class dribbling skills.
According to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Millie has a great eye for treats and is always up for a post-match snooze or having a fun time playing ball.
Then there is four-month-old kitten Bethany, who has been named after striker Bethany England.
Like Bethany, she’s a real team player and has had plenty of admirers since arriving at the cattery.
They’ve been impressed by her ball control and fancy footwork.
Battersea centre manager Rebecca MacIver said: “Here at Battersea, our staff and four-legged friends are really getting into the World Cup spirit, especially our very own talented Lionesses Millie and Bethany.
“Best of luck to England, we’ll all be cheering you on!”
For any animal lovers looking to hit the ‘bark of the net’ with dogs like Millie or sing ‘felines on a shirt’ with cats like Bethany this summer, visit the Battersea website for information on rehoming a rescue dog or cat.
