To mark Star Wars Day (4 May), Battersea is introducing Yoda, a tiny dog with truly out‑of‑this‑world ears and a heart big enough to fill the galaxy. Yoda, the French Bulldog, arrived at Battersea as a stray, and her oversized ears, wrinkly charm and wise little face quickly won over staff across the centre.
When she arrived, Battersea’s clinic team quickly discovered that Yoda needed a lot of veterinary care for such a small Padawan. She had painful, chronic ear problems, skin irritation, dry eyes, and breathing difficulties; all common issues for her breed. Yoda underwent Total Ear Canal Ablation (TECA) surgery to remove both ear canals after repeated infections left her in continued pain; she also had Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) and needed surgery to help her breathe more easily and improve her quality of life. Alongside this, she needed ongoing eye drops and soothing skin treatments. Despite everything, Yoda remained calm, gentle and endlessly affectionate, in true Jedi spirit.
During her recovery, Yoda spent time with one of Battersea’s foster carers, where she perfected her favourite move: using “the Force” to summon cuddles. She has now found her loving new home, where she is thriving, adored, and enjoying a peaceful life worthy of any Jedi Master.
With May the 4th approaching, Battersea is sharing Yoda’s story as a heart‑warming reminder that rescue pets come with just as much character, charm and star power as any creature from a galaxy far, far away.
Battersea’s new ‘Cost of Cute’ campaign – seeking to tackle the concerning rise in people buying pets with ‘extreme characteristics’ which the charity says is currently one of the most urgent welfare issues facing dogs and cats in the UK – is urging people to think twice before liking or sharing content that features dogs and cats with these extreme characteristics and celebrate happy and healthy animals online instead.
There are also several steps prospective dog and cat owners can take to ensure they make informed decisions when choosing a pet, whether that’s talking to an expert like a vet, visiting a rescue centre such as Battersea, or using trusted resources.
To understand the hidden cost of cute and how we can change it, visit battersea.org.uk/costofcute.