The Blue Cross opened its first animal hospital in London, UK in1906.The first Blue Cross Medal was presented to the daughter of a postman, and in1940 it was expanded to recognise animal bravery also.

Over the past 100 years, the hospital has evolved to meet the many changing animal welfare needs; it was originally opened to treat the working horses that were a common sight on London’s streets at the turn of the century.

In 2006 The Blue Cross reinstated its bravery medal for one year only to mark the centenary of the country's oldest continually running animal hospital. The charity invited nominations from the owners or handlers of animals that live or work in the city of London that have come to the aid of a human or animal life.

The Blue Cross Medal for animal heroism was awarded to Jake, a Metropolitan police explosives dog who cleared the scene at the Tavistock Square bus bombing. The medal was presented by actress Felicity Kendal.

Today the hospital cares for the pets of owners who cannot afford private veterinary fees and provides a number of outreach services including a mobile clinic and a community nursing scheme.

 

 Seafaring Simon - The cat awarded medals

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