Dogs of the Cardiff picket lines: The strikes continue

If you've been wandering around campus, you would have noticed all the furry friends brought to the picket lines and rallies, joining in with the staff to protest against changes in uni. We decided to interview them, to see why they were also out in force.

Sweep

Sweep is upset with Colin

Age: 12 (approx).

Human: Professor Colin Berry – Bio-Science Lecturer.

Reason for striking: Sweep is striking to protect pensions, the profession and for anti-casualisation.

Otis

The sign says it all

Age: 4.

Human: Hannah Pitt, a Researcher in the department of Geography and Planning.

Reason for striking: Otis is striking over the concern of his human's contract, "as a researcher, she is on a temporary contract".

Fudge

Fudge is ready for the fight

Age: 5.

Human: Ross Vanderwert, a Psychology Lecturer.

Reason for striking: Fudge is majorly concerned about where his doggy biscuits will come from if the uni continues the way they have been.

Daisy

Look at those puppy eyes

Age: 3.

Human: Neil Badmington, Lecturer in ENCAP.

Reason for striking: Daisy has had enough with the state of higher education.

Pip

Pip looking out for Colin

Age: 9.

Human: Claire Thurlow, a Tutor in Politics

Reason for striking: Pip is strongly against casualised labour as it means he gets less treats.

Tommy

Tommy is eagerly awaiting Colin's arrival

Age: 3.

Human: Rob Thomas, Senior Lecturer in Bio-Sciences.

Reason for striking: Tommy is concerned about four issues: falling pay and pensions, temporary contracts for long-term staff, the gender and race pay gap and the workload.

So, there you have it. All the furry friends out on strike to support their humans. We hope they still manage to have their dog treats!

Related articles recommended by this writer:

– Here's everything we know about the strikes.

– Cardiff uni staff vow to 'win' strike battle during opening rally.

– Cardiff SU will officially support UCU strike action following AGM motion.