A RESCUE shelter that for 20 years has helped abandoned and mistreated animals in need of urgent care, says it needs financial help as it faces an uncertain future.
Teckels Animal Sanctuary, based in Whitminster has cared for unwanted cats and dogs since 2003 but has faced a tough year.
Staff say the centre has been severely impacted by a number of factors due to spiralling costs, falling donations and an increase in the number of animals being given up.
The situation has been described as 'devastating' and 'heartbreaking' by charity bosses, who say it will close in two months unless urgent funds are raised.
Centre manager Sarah Johnson said: “It’s heartbreaking to think that we may not be around to help the increasing numbers of unwanted cats and dogs in their time of need.
“Not only would the closure of Teckels have a huge impact on the staff, the stray animals, and anyone local who needs us, but would also put a massive strain on our colleagues at our neighbouring rescues.”
The rescue and rehoming centre cares for and rehabilitates homeless cats and dogs and finds them forever homes.
Each year Teckels re-homes more than 250 cats and 150 dogs and have held the stray dog contract for Stroud District Council for over 15 years.
Some of these animals have had a difficult past during which they may have been abused, neglected or abandoned, and others have previously had owners who are no longer in a position to look after them.
A spokesperson added: “As an independent animal welfare charity, we are close to breaking point.
“We need your help to ensure we can continue offering the much-needed care and love for abandoned animals in our local area.
“Here at Teckels we are now facing the devastating prospect of potential closure.
“To put it simply, we have just two months to stabilise our financial position to avoid immediate closure.
“We will be launching a national appeal to the public today (Tuesday, May 2) in one final plea for the nation to help save Teckels and the vital rescue and rehabilitation work that we do for abandoned cats and dogs.
“We also aim to raise awareness of the severity of this national crisis which is affecting all animal welfare charities across the UK.”
For more information and to donate see - https://tinyurl.com/yk28e4v4
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