Eleni claims she won’t eat dog biscuits but gets plenty of leftovers from the family table. However, sometimes these ‘feasts’ consist of a crust of bread soaked in a bowl of milk, bread and bones (with no meat left on them) or a bowl of watery rice.

Eleni is a kind lady who isn’t intentionally ill treating her dog but she doesn’t know any other way. Without any prompting she treats Hionati with Frontline to keep her flea-free and was grateful to learn about worming pills and the improvement they brought to her dog’s condition. However, Hionati has no proper shelter from the elements and is often without food and water bowls. The area is also not cleared so she is forced to live surrounded by her own waste products for most of the time.

Sharon’s Mum, Olga, was visiting and was shocked and distressed at Hionati’s condition. She took it upon herself to start clearing the area around her and discovered in the process that the dog is terrified of sticks. Olga found out why when she saw Eleni’s young grandson hitting Hionati with one so he has now been soundly lectured in front of his grandmother and (when possible) is monitored closely when he is near the dog. He is bemused at the English people fussing their pet dogs and has had a couple of lessons with Sharon about how to approach and stroke them without making them scared or aggressive because of his sudden movements.

It’s always tricky to become involved in the welfare of someone else’s animal but fortunately, Eleni is happy to accept help. Sharon approached her and she has no problem with her supplementing Hionati’s diet with meat and biscuits twice a day and taking her for daily walks. After Olga started to clear the area, Eleni picked up where she left off to complete the job and has also now given the dog some makeshift shelter.  Thanks to handy Mick (Benson’s owner) Hionati will soon have a proper kennel and Eleni has now agreed to let Sharon take her for neutering when she is a bit more robust.