Queen Elizabeth met with model David Gandy when she opened a new set of kennels at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on Tuesday (17.03.15).
The British monarch was the guest of honour at the unveiling of the Mary Tealby Kennels – named after the women who founded the London animal shelter in 1860 – and was introduced to various celebrities in attendance including Amanda Holden, Paul O’Grady and fashion hunk Gandy.
The queen grinned broadly as Gandy bowed to shake her hand the 35-year-old star admitted afterwards it was a total "honour" to be introduced to the ruling royal.
In a posting on his Instagram account, he wrote: "An honour to be part of the opening of the new Mary Tealby Kennels at @batterseadogsandcatshome. Even greater honour to meet Her Majesty the Queen (sic)"
Before meeting with the other guests, the queen was introduced to Beama the corgi – the breed of dog she is famous for owning.
The adorable 12-year-old pooch – a recent return to the shelter – was dressed in a Union Flag for the big occasion and presented by Battersea ambassador O’Grady to the queen. His handler Ali Taylor told the monarch he was keen to join the other corgis at her homes.
Taylor said: "He would quite like Windsor Castle. Or Buckingham Palace. He’s not really that fussy."
Fellow Battersea ambassador Holden then cheekily asked: "Are you are not tempted to take a corgi home?"
To which the queen replied: "Maybe. Not at the moment."
‘Britain’s Got Talent’ judge Holden asked her husband Prince Philip the same question, prompting the answer: "What Corgi?"
Philip then turned to Gandy, another Battersea supporter, and said: "Have you got a Corgi?"
And the model answered: "No, sir, but I am tempted."
Elizabeth, now 88, owns less dogs now than she used to. Her pack of pooches are now made up of corgis Willow and Holly and two dorgis Candy and Vulcan – who are a corgi/dachshund cross breed.
Before leaving the royal couple were presented with gift bags for their pets filled with toys and treats for their mutts.
As we was handed the gifts, Philip quipped: "Gives new meaning to the phrase doggy bag!"
Queen Elizabeth meets David Gandy at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home
