Whirly is a lively terrier cross who arrived at our stray dog kennels in May 2023. He was a bouncy 10-month-old pup with a mysterious past. Initially found tied up near Hilsea’s shoreline, we believe the pooch had already been passed between at least three different homes. His energetic nature had proven challenging for previous owners, leaving him without a stable home.
After our brilliant kennels staff gave Whirly some much-appreciated care and cuddles, they were able to take him to Helping Hounds Hampshire. They’re a regular charity partner for our kennels to find loving new homes for dogs.
It didn’t take long for Whirly to then find his new forever home in Laura Ingall.
Laura’s an experienced dog owner who also specialises in working with animals for film and television, so was a perfect fit.
Now, Whirly has become an unexpected Christmas celebrity, appearing 40 seconds into this year’s McDonald’s Christmas TV advert. Viewers can see him strutting across a road in a very festive (and cute) knitted elf outfit, to the bemusement of onlookers.
Cllr Lee Hunt, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure and Sport, who himself recently adopted a dog from our kennels, said: “Whirly’s story is exactly why we do what we do. Every dog that comes through our kennels deserves a second chance, and seeing one go from being passed from home-to-home to a TV star is absolutely brilliant. It’s a testament to the hard work of our team and our fantastic charity partners.”
Laura Ingall, owner of Pets on Set and Whirly’s new owner, shared her excitement: “When I first saw Whirly, I fell in love with his little face. I could see he had a special character with bags of potential.”
She continued: “What people often don’t understand is that dogs like Whirly aren’t ‘too much’ – they just need the right approach. With proper training and engagement, these high-energy dogs can transform from being seen as challenging to becoming focused and happy. Many owners give up dogs who they find overwhelming, but with patience and the right techniques, they can become the best companions.
“Now, seeing Whirly light up the screen in the McDonald’s advert is just incredible. He’s proof that with the right support and training, rescue dogs can achieve amazing things.”
A lesson from Whirly: get microchipped
We’re using Whirly’s story to also highlight the importance of microchipping. The RSPCA recently awarded us a Platinum PawPrint Award for the ninth consecutive year, and our dog kennels continue to go above and beyond in reuniting lost dogs with their owners and finding loving homes for strays.
“Microchipping is one of the easiest ways to ensure you can be reunited with your dog should the worst happen.” added Cllr Hunt. “If your dog needs to be microchipped, please do book an appointment with your local vet or contact our kennels who can microchip for a small fee.”
For more information about our stray dog kennels service, email dog.kennels@portsmouthcc.gov.uk, call 023 9268 8181, or visit our webpage.
To see if Whirly continues his TV and film journey, keep an eye out petsonset.co.uk.
You can watch the full McDonald’s advert here.