17/09/2025
We know that LGBTQIA+ people tend to be owners of pets. Many a queer family is completed by the presence of a furry or not furry friend, with cats just ahead of dogs as the preferred companion animal of choice. Dogs are not far behind though and one of the gay heroes who loves them is Will Young. The former Pop Idol winner from 2002 is now using his fame to help the UK's dog rescue centres. BBC News Channel and Attitude magazine both report that Will has made a donation in dog food of fifty thousand pounds to dog charities the length and breadth of the land. Like the late gay singer George Michael, Will believes in kindness for kindness sake and building institutions of love and support. BBC Radio WM in the Midlands reported that he is also on a tour of rehoming and rescue centres nationwide, starting with Birmingham Dogs Home. Attitude magazine adds "The initiative comes as rescue centres face rising costs, falling adoption rates and an increasing number of dogs needing care." Nationwide, the RSPCA recorded 48,814 neglect reports in 2024, a 25% increase, while adoption rates have fallen by a third since 2019. Media news site Music News added that Will remarked "It’s heartbreaking to see rescue centres under such strain, which is why we created Miraculous Meals, to turn something as simple as feeding your dog into a lifeline for others. “I’m really proud to be setting off across the UK to help raise awareness and to deliver food to the incredible teams working tirelessly to give rescue dogs the second chance they deserve.”
