Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (A.R.C.) has officially launched its first-ever Bristol Pet Awards, a brand-new citywide celebration dedicated to honouring the region’s most beloved companion animals and the extraordinary bonds they share with their humans.

With local business Natural Treats Bristol proudly on board as the headline sponsor, the charity is calling on the public to submit their nominations and help shine a spotlight on Bristol’s furry, feathered, or scaly heroes.

Nominations are free and open to all animal lovers across the region.

The Official Award Categories

Members of the public can submit nominations across five special categories celebrating both incredible animals and the humans who stand up for them:

Why the Awards Matter

The Bristol Pet Awards campaign is aiming to raise £15,000 for animals in need. All funds raised through the initiative will go directly toward supporting Bristol A.R.C.’s vital rescue work, round-the-clock veterinary care, and community outreach services, helping the rising number of vulnerable, stray, and abandoned animals across the city.

Celebrating Local Pets: The Grand Finale

The campaign will culminate in a spectacular live celebration event on Thursday, 1st October 2026 at Bristol’s iconic Paintworks venue. Running from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm, the evening promises to be the pet event of the year, bringing the community together to share heartwarming stories and officially crown the winners.

How to Nominate

Submitting a nomination is quick, easy, and completely free. Animal lovers are invited to visit the Bristol A.R.C website to share their pet’s unique story and explain why their pet deserves recognition.  Nominations close on 1st September 2026 at midnight.

“We are absolutely thrilled to launch our very first Bristol Pet Awards, and we are so grateful to have Natural Treats Bristol as headline sponsor and ELM Legal sponsoring the Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Luke Mitchell, Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager at Bristol A.R.C.  “Every day, we witness the incredible impact pets have on people’s lives, but we also see the amazing selflessness of the people who care for them.  This campaign is a way for the whole city to celebrate that magic, while also raising crucial funds for the animals still waiting for their forever homes.  If you know an exceptional pet or inspiring animal champion, please submit your nominations!

Key Details at a Glance

Great Bristol Run 2026: £14,886 Raised for Bristol A.R.C. and One Very Special Adoption Story

On Sunday 10th, our amazing team of Great Bristol Run runners took to the streets of Bristol and absolutely smashed it!

Thanks to our incredible runners, community supporters, corporate partners and Trusts, we have raised an amazing £14,886 for Bristol A.R.C.

One Runner’s Journey That Stole Our Hearts

Among the many inspiring stories from this year’s event, one in particular stood out to us.

One of our fantastic runners signed up after reading about our Great Bristol Run fundraising places and immediately felt it was the perfect opportunity to combine two of her passions: running and helping animals.

Having run for several years, she knows first-hand the benefits that running brings to both physical and mental wellbeing. But this time, every training run and every mile on race day carried extra meaning.

“Knowing you are running for a charity to help make a difference to animals that are in need was an extra layer of motivation throughout my training and on race day.”

She went on to smash her fundraising target, helping raise vital funds for the animals in our care. As part of our runner thank-you package, participants are invited to enjoy a cat socialisation session at the centre, giving them the chance to spend time with some of our feline residents.

It was during this visit that she met a very special cat called Poppy, and she made a very special impression.

During the socialisation session, she climbed onto our runner’s lap, enjoyed some playtime and then settled down for a cosy 30-minute nap. It didn’t take long for a connection to form.

After her visit, she told us:

“It was amazing to see the great work you all do to look after and provide time, care and love to the animals. I truly loved spending time with the cats and especially Poppy. She is an absolute dream. She literally lit my world up when she played and then slept on my lap for 30 minutes.”

Soon afterwards, she submitted an application to adopt Poppy, hoping to offer her the loving forever home she deserved.

We’re delighted to say that Poppy’s story didn’t end at the centre.

It ended with a new beginning.

Meet Poppy

Poppy came into our care through no fault of her own and has been an absolute delight ever since.

Affectionate, gentle and incredibly people-focused, Poppy is a true lap cat who loves nothing more than curling up for a cuddle. While she enjoys the occasional playful moment and can happily entertain herself with a cardboard scratch mat, her favourite thing is simply spending time with people.

Like many older cats, Poppy has a few small health considerations. She thrives on a sensitive diet and benefits from small, frequent meals, and our team worked closely with her adopters to ensure they had all the information and support needed to help her settle comfortably into home life.

Throughout her stay with us, Poppy won the hearts of staff and volunteers alike. It was impossible not to fall in love with her.

Thankfully, one of our Great Bristol Run heroes did exactly that.

A Perfect Match

Reflecting on her adoption, Poppy’s new owner said:

“Since the 10K I have adopted a truly loving and wonderful cat called Poppy. I have a deep sense of joy and gratitude in sharing my home with Poppy and making that difference to her in giving her a loving, caring and fun forever home.

“Adopting an animal from a rescue centre gives a second chance to a deserving cat such as Poppy. It is the most fulfilling experience and the rewards of adoption are immeasurable.”

Stories like this perfectly capture what Bristol A.R.C. is all about.

The funds raised through events like the Great Bristol Run help us care for animals when they need us most. And sometimes, those fundraising journeys come full circle, creating life-changing moments for both animals and people.

Thank You

To every single person who ran, donated, cheered, shared our fundraising pages or supported us in any way – thank you.

Together, you’ve raised an incredible £14,886 and helped change the lives of countless animals.

And in Poppy’s case, you’ve helped one special cat find exactly where she belongs.

From all of us at Bristol A.R.C., thank you for running, fundraising and believing in second chances. 💙

Left Behind Like Yesterday’s Rubbish

Bullseye is an 8-year-old Jack Russell Terrier who came into Bristol A.R.C. as a stray.

When he arrived, he had numerous cuts and scabs across his face and ears, and it was clear he had not had an easy life. No older dog should end up alone, frightened and unwanted.

The saddest part? Bullseye still loves people.

Despite everything he’s been through, Bullseye remains incredibly affectionate and trusting. He adores human attention and will happily rub his head into you for more fuss if he thinks you’ve stopped stroking him too soon.

Bullseye is now looking for a very special retirement home where he can finally feel safe, comfortable and loved.

Sadly, Bullseye is in the earlier stages of losing his vision. In unfamiliar places he can sometimes walk into things, although once he learns his surroundings he still enjoys having a run around and exploring. At the moment, there is no way of knowing how quickly his eyesight may deteriorate.

He also has ongoing skin issues that are currently being managed successfully through diet and medication, and any adopter will need to continue this care with their own vet.

Bullseye would love a calm home with a secure garden where he can enjoy 1-2 shorter walks a day on familiar routes, plenty of sniffing opportunities, and lots of time curled up beside his people.

He cannot live with dogs or cats, but could live with children aged 12 and over.

After everything he’s endured, Bullseye deserves to spend his later years knowing comfort, patience and kindness.

Bullseye still believes someone will love him.

If you think you could offer Bullseye the loving retirement home he deserves, please get in touch with the team.

From Kennels to Comfort: How Foster Care Helped Phoebe Shine

When Phoebe first arrived into our care after straying on the Clifton Downs, she wasn’t in the best condition.

At just 18 months old, the sweet little tan dog arrived with sore, itchy skin, bites and irritation around her ears, and a coat that had clearly seen better days. Although she remained incredibly gentle and affectionate throughout every examination and treatment, it was obvious that life had been overwhelming for her.

Despite everything, Phoebe’s lovely personality shone through from the very beginning. Staff described her as “extremely sweet” and she quickly won hearts with her affectionate nature and desire to be close to people at all times.

However, kennel life itself was proving difficult for Phoebe.

Like many sensitive dogs, the kennel environment was simply too stressful. The noise, unfamiliar surroundings and lack of a calm space to properly relax meant Phoebe struggled to fully switch off and decompress. While she was receiving treatment for her skin and ears, what she really needed alongside veterinary care was rest, comfort and stability.

That’s where foster care changed everything.

Moving into a foster home allowed Phoebe to finally breathe. In a home environment, her foster carers began to see the real Phoebe emerge, a relaxed, loving and playful little dog who simply wanted to be near her people.

Now, instead of feeling overwhelmed in kennels, Phoebe spends her days curled up at her foster carers’ feet, snoozing peacefully, pottering around the garden sniffing every corner she can find, and proudly carrying around enormous soft toys in excitement.

She has become the ultimate cuddle companion, a little shadow who would much rather be in your lap than anywhere else.

Her foster home has also helped us learn so much more about what makes Phoebe happy and what kind of forever home she needs. She recently enjoyed a visit to a secure field where she could safely explore and decompress, and she continues to grow in confidence every day.

Most importantly, foster care has given Phoebe the chance to properly recover and flourish. Alongside a strict sensitive diet and daily medication for her skin condition, she is now doing incredibly well. Her coat and skin have improved massively, and her itchiness is much more manageable. She will need ongoing support with this in her future home, but she has responded brilliantly to treatment and is thriving.

Phoebe’s story is such an important reminder of the difference fostering can make.

For dogs like Phoebe, fostering provides something kennels simply can’t, peace, routine, comfort and the opportunity to truly decompress. It allows frightened or overwhelmed dogs to show their real personalities and helps us better understand their needs so we can find them the right forever homes.

Today, Phoebe is no longer the stressed little stray who arrived needing urgent care. She is a playful, affectionate and deeply loving young dog with so much to give.

Now all she needs is a forever family to continue the journey her foster carers started.

 

Grounded by Clipped Wings – Sherbet Lemon’s Story

Sherbet Lemon may be tiny, but her story carries a big message.

When she arrived as a stray, there were more questions than answers. No known history, no confirmed age, just a small, quiet budgie with clipped wings and limited ability to do the very thing birds are meant to do, fly.

Based on the appearance of her cere, we believe she’s a young adult female, but much of her early life remains a mystery.

What we do know is that Sherbet Lemon had already been through a lot. Her feathers had been clipped before she came into care, leaving her unable to fly and more vulnerable as a result. For a budgie, flight isn’t just about movement, it’s confidence, exercise, freedom, and safety. Without it, even the simplest parts of life become more challenging.

Sherbet Lemon is a petite little bird with a gentle presence, often found perched in front of her mirror, chirping away happily. She’s especially fond of watching videos of other budgies, singing along as if she’s part of the flock. It’s a small but telling reminder of how social these birds are, and how much companionship matters to them.

Because of her size and her clipped wings, Sherbet Lemon needed an experienced adopter, someone who understands that bonding budgies takes time and patience, and that her introduction to other birds would need to be slow and carefully managed. A separate cage to begin with, a watchful eye, and a willingness to let her build confidence at her own pace were all essential.

She also isn’t fully hand tame, but that’s part of her journey too. With time, kindness, and consistency, trust can grow.

And the hopeful part of her story? Feathers can regrow. With the right care and a proper moult, there’s every chance Sherbet Lemon may regain her ability to fly in the future. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s possible.

Now, she has found a home.

A place where she’s safe, where her needs are understood, and where she’ll have the chance to build the life she deserves, one step at a time.

From a Box in the Park to Stealing Every Heart

Melody has quickly become a staff favourite at Bristol A.R.C., not just for her story, but for the way she shines every day.

In the middle of Castle Park, Melody was found abandoned in a fabric box, with no lid and only a few small nuggets of food inside. She arrived with us in February as a stray, and sadly she hasn’t had any interest since then.

We don’t know exactly what Melody’s past looks like, but she clearly has experience with people and a level of trust that shines through straight away. She settles quickly into interaction and has a natural confidence about her.

Melody is a female mini lop with a soft curly grey coat and a bright, inquisitive nature. She’ll often come straight over to greet you when you enter the room, keen to see what you’re doing and be part of it.

She’s a very active rabbit who needs plenty of space. When she’s happy, she’ll zoom around and show off with energetic binkies, really letting her personality shine.

What makes Melody especially special is her character, often described as more like a dog than a rabbit. She loves being near people, happily sitting beside you at veg time, accepting gentle fuss and even climb onto your lap just to be close.

We are looking for a home where Melody can be slowly introduced and bonded with a neutered male rabbit. She is social, confident, and benefits from both rabbit and human companionship.

She hasn’t had a single enquiry since arriving in February, but she’s the kind of rabbit where it only takes one meeting to completely fall in love with her. 💛

We Won! Thank You for Your Support

We’re so excited to share some incredible news… we won!

Thanks to your amazing support and votes, the fundraising team at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been awarded Fundraising Campaign of the Year at the Access Impact Awards 2026, hosted by Donorfy.

One of our team members travelled to London last week to attend Donorfest and proudly collect the award on behalf of everyone who made this campaign possible.

This recognition means so much to us. Our Calm Amongst the Chaos campaign was all about supporting the wellbeing of animals in our care during major building works through specialist equipment, behaviour support, and off-site enrichment. Winning this award highlights just how important that work is.

We also want to give a special mention to our Snip Happens campaign, which received Highly Commended in the Awareness Campaign of the Year category, another achievement we’re incredibly proud of.

Thank you to everyone who voted, supported, and shared our campaigns. We truly couldn’t have done this without you.

Everything we do is for the animals in our care, and this award is for them too.

Our New CIO Status

Since December 1953, RSPCA Bristol & District Branch (Registered Charity No. 205858) and Bristol Dogs and Cats Home (Registered Charity No. 205858-1), have been operating as linked charities, and since 2018 we have used the working name Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. We understand that this has not been the clearest position to explain to our supporters and are therefore pleased to now be moving to a simpler charity legal structure of one active Charitable Incorporated Organisation. 

Our official charity name is now RSPCA Bristol and District Branch CIO and our new charity number is 1216045. Bristol Animal Rescue Centre remains the working name of RSPCA Bristol and District Branch CIO.

From this point forward, the two linked charities (RSPCA Bristol & District Branch (Registered Charity No. 205858) and Bristol Dogs and Cats Home (Registered Charity No. 205858-1) are considered dormant and we would therefore ask that our supporters do not direct any donations to them.

What does this mean for the animals and our work?

The most important thing to know is that our commitment to animals remains exactly the same. We’re still here, doing what we do best – helping pets and their people in our community. Nothing changes about our mission or the work we do – only the legal structure supporting it.

If you have made a recent donation to either of the dormant charities, please be assured that your donation will still be used to achieve our mission of ensuring animals in need within our community receive the compassion, care and respect they deserve.

We’ll continue providing the same essential services – finding new homes for hundreds of animals in need every year, while working hard to keep pets with their owners where possible by providing information, advice and support through low-cost pet health services and pet food bank donations.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at reception@bristolarc.org.uk. Please check out our FAQ page first to see if your question is answered there.

At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, staff continue to care for a high number of animals across the centre. As always, the focus remains on the welfare, safety, and wellbeing of every animal in their care.

With day-to-day demands high, the team has been prioritising hands-on care and wellbeing above all else.

While care has always come first, we’ll be honest, names… became less of a priority.

As a result, temporary names were assigned across the website. We would like to formally apologise for the results.

You may now encounter animals such as:

Staff have described the outcome as “not our best work.”

The campaign, titled “Rescue Them From Their Names,” sees animals listed on the website under these placeholder names, encouraging members of the public to adopt and give them a fresh start with a name of their choosing.

Adopt a pet. Maybe give them a better name too. View our available animals here.

Finding Home on the Water

Some of you may remember little Joseph, one half of the pair of frightened puppies who arrived in a washing basket just before Christmas. Now known as Rico, this once timid pup has begun a completely different kind of life – one full of adventure, as he now lives aboard a narrowboat.

When Rico first arrived with us, he found kennel life a little daunting with the constant noise and activity around him. He was a sensitive little soul, showing lots of appeasement behaviours. It was clear he wanted to trust, he just needed time and reassurance to feel safe. 

Our team gently supported him using calming music and enrichment like snuffle mats to help him relax, and before long Rico was moved into a foster home. In this quieter, more settled environment, he began to come out of his shell, his sweet and curious personality starting to shine through. As his confidence grew, it became clear he was ready for his next chapter, and he soon found his perfect match in Tallulah, who welcomed him into a calm yet adventurous new life living on a narrowboat.

Tallulah says she was immediately drawn to his gentle nature, noticing his soft and inquisitive character from their very first meeting. Each day brings something new. From peaceful countryside moorings to bustling towpaths, Rico is constantly exploring new sights, sounds and smells. 

One of his favourite pastimes is watching the world go by from the window.

He’ll even lick a little patch of the glass so he can get the clearest view of all the comings and goings along the canal. Although it’s been a big change for such a small dog, Rico has taken to life on the boat all in his stride and has quickly made the space his own.

Like any young dog, Rico has plenty of spirit and is always keen to make new friends along the towpath. Tallulah also shared some of his endearing quirks, including getting the hiccups when he’s feeling a little overwhelmed during training- something that’s as sweet as it is unusual.

Above all, Rico has become a constant companion for Tallulah, bringing comfort, company and a sense of joy to this unique way of life.

From a nervous puppy to a curious explorer on the water, Rico’s journey is a lovely reminder that every animal just needs the right home – even if it’s a little unconventional.

A Special Mother’s Day Story: Marmalade and Baby Biscoff

Mother’s Day is a wonderful time to celebrate mums of all kinds, including some of the very special animal mums who come into our care at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Sometimes animals arrive at the rescue already heavily pregnant, and during these moments our priority is to make sure they have the safest, calmest environment possible to welcome their babies into the world. While our rescue team provides essential support, we rely heavily on our incredible network of foster carers to give expectant mums the quiet, comfort and dedicated care they need.

Recently, one such mum arrived with us,  a lovely guinea pig named Marmalade. Knowing she would soon give birth, Marmalade went into foster care where she could have the peace of a home environment during the final stages of her pregnancy.

Her foster carer made sure she was as prepared as possible for Marmalade’s arrival.

“To start with I did a lot of research into dietary needs and how best to support a pregnant guinea pig,” she explained. “Then I looked into the best foods to give once the babies were born so both mum and pup would have everything they needed.”

Despite all the preparation, Marmalade proved she knew exactly what she was doing.

(Pregnant Marmalade)

“It’s been a bit of an honour to be honest to be able to help Marmalade during this special time,” her foster carer said. “I did lots of research to make sure I was prepared if something went wrong, but actually Marmalade has been fantastic and made things super easy! She has given birth to a beautiful big feisty pup who we already adore, and Marmalade is a brilliant mum.”

That beautiful pup is Biscoff, already full of personality and keeping everyone entertained.

For guinea pigs, foster homes can make a huge difference. A home environment offers quieter surroundings than a busy rescue centre, which can be especially important for nervous animals or new mums. It also allows foster carers to spend more one-on-one time with them.

“You can give them more undivided attention at all hours of the day,” Marmalade’s foster carer explained. “The scent and sounds of a home environment can be much less intimidating than the rescue centre where there are lots of different animals. It also helps you spot their unique traits, likes and dislikes, and pick up on any health issues much more quickly.”

Having fostered more than 25 guinea pigs, she says the experience continues to be incredibly rewarding.

“I love the depth of knowledge I’ve gained on these wonderful animals, sometimes I feel like a member of the herd! People often see them as just cute little furry things, but they are surprisingly loving and resilient and each one really does have their own personality. Seeing piggies come into my care timid and shy and then leave happy and confident is incredibly rewarding.”

Soon, Marmalade and Biscoff will be ready to begin the next chapter of their journey, finding their forever home together. We will be shortly putting them up for rehoming as a pair, so if you think you could offer this adorable duo a loving home, keep an eye on our rehoming pages and register your interest.

Stories like Marmalade’s simply wouldn’t be possible without our amazing foster carers, who open their homes to animals who need extra care, time and patience.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, it’s a wonderful way to make a real difference.

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the incredible women who make Bristol Animal Rescue Centre such a special place. From hands-on animal care to running vital projects, their dedication, compassion, and leadership touch every part of our work.
To mark the occasion, we asked three amazing women from our team the same questions:
Questions we asked:

Meet Jodie – Animal Home Manager

Q1: Go for it! It will challenge you in ways many other careers don’t, but the satisfaction that can be gained from it is worth it. It’s physically and mentally hard, but if you have a strong heart and a strong stomach and don’t just love animals but want to make a difference to and for animals, then it is the career for you.

Q2: Sounds very random but I am inspired by myself – having done this for over 25 years I have seen lots of things that I wouldn’t wish on others, but remain positive, proactive and ready for the next task ahead. I am someone who enjoys Mondays and knowing that I make a difference every day.

Q3: “Things can always get better with the right help and support”– animal care and welfare is no different!

 

Meet Flame – Clinic Nurse Assistant

Q1: My main piece of advice would be to volunteer as much as you can to get your foot in the door, and to never stop trying to learn and grow your knowledge of animals.

Q2: I feel like this is a pretty basic answer, but my female role model is Bindi Irwin. I think that she brings animals that aren’t typically cute and cuddly to the media and gives people the opportunity to learn about species they otherwise wouldn’t have heard of.

Q3: Resilience – not everything goes the way you planned, and it is definitely not always easy, but you keep going because there’s always another animal that needs your help.

 

Meet Jess – Volunteer Coordinator

Q1: My first experience in animal welfare was as a Cattery Volunteer around 10 years ago. After a childhood filled with dreams of working with animals, volunteering showed me I’d finally landed in the right place. I had no formal qualifications in the area, but volunteering opened the door to developing practical skills, learn about charity operations, and surrounding myself with experts who then became my mentors. I would say to anyone with ambitions for a career in animal welfare that volunteering is an absolutely fantastic way to begin your journey and to develop skills in the field.

Q2:A former head of department who was a superlative leader, both to our team and as a contributor to the animal welfare organisation I worked for. She had an enormous influence on the values I developed as a professional, and these formed a working philosophy which I am proud to bring to my current practice. She showed that, in a rescue environment, caring for each other is as important as caring for the animals we look after, and I shall never forget the generous knowledge she shared with me.

Q3:
I am moved every day by the tireless dedication of my colleagues and by the unwavering positivity they offer each of our animals, regardless of their presentation or temperament. And the one thing that working in animal rescue has taught me that applies to life is that no matter how challenging the behaviour in front of you may seem, if you look at the underlying reasons, and respond with compassion, it can be transformative.

Women play an essential role at Bristol A.R.C., from caring for every animal that arrives at our doors to supporting our community in so many ways. In fact, around 81% of our staff are women, bringing passion, dedication, and compassion to everything we do. This International Women’s Day, we want to celebrate their resilience, hard work, and the difference they make every day.

Too Much Terrier? Bristol Rescue Dog Has 8 Failed Adoption Meets

A 9-year-old rescue dog at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is still waiting for her forever home; despite eight separate adoption reserves.

Brandi, a small terrier-type dog, has been in foster care since November and has now reached six months in rescue.

On paper, she sounds perfect: small, older, settled in a home environment. But there’s a catch. Brandi doesn’t like other dogs and struggles with separation anxiety, meaning she needs an experienced, adult-only home where she can be the only pet and won’t be left for long periods.

“People see a small, older dog and assume she’ll be calm and social,” said Jodie Hayward from Bristol A.R.C. “Brandi isn’t naughty, she just knows what she likes. And what she likes is a quiet life without other dogs.”

Despite being transparent about her needs, eight potential adopters have reserved Brandi and in some cases have met her to then tell us that they would like her to be able to mix with other dogs, it states on her profile that she cannot be around other dogs and we talk with each adopter at length.

Many applicants were hoping for a dog who could:

Brandi isn’t that dog.

She is currently supported by the rescue’s behaviour team and her foster carers describe her as settled, affectionate and thriving in the right environment.

“She would be perfect for someone who wants a loyal companion, enjoys quieter walks, and understands terriers can be independent and intense,” they said. “We are really looking for someone who has terrier experience, is happy to share their sofa and lives in a quieter area. 

With foster spaces limited, the charity hopes that by being completely honest about Brandi’s needs, the right person will finally step forward.

Brandi is available for rehoming via Bristol A.R.C website – click here to see her profile

Six Weeks Can Change a Life: Foster Dogs Needed Across Bristol

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is urgently appealing for new foster carers to support dogs in need of temporary homes across the Bristol area.

The charity is currently seeking foster carers who can provide calm, stable environments; particularly homes with no other dogs, animals, or children; to help dogs that may struggle within a busy kennel environment. These foster placements are typically around six weeks for straightforward cases, but can be any length of time depending on the need of the individual dog, and play a vital role in helping dogs transition successfully into permanent homes.

Foster carers provide essential, short-term care while animals prepare for adoption. The rescue centre covers food, bedding, toys, and veterinary care. Foster carers simply provide a safe home, daily care, and plenty of love, following guidance from the charity’s experienced team.

“Fostering transforms lives both for the animals and the people who welcome them into their homes,” said  Kayleigh Larcombe from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. “Right now, we especially need carers who can offer a quiet home environment for dogs who need extra support to thrive outside the kennels.”

Who Can Foster?

To become a foster carer, applicants should:

If you are planning to move or go on holiday soon, the fostering team can discuss temporary arrangements and support options.

Fostering provides invaluable support for dogs who benefit from personalised care and helps free up vital space within the rescue centre for other animals in need.

Apply here!

Guaranteed ‘Swipe Rights’ This Valentine’s

Research shows dogs are the #1 dating wingman. In fact, a UK survey found 94%* singles are more likely to swipe right on profiles that feature a dog. (*Poll by Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, 2026)

Coincidence? We think not.

This Valentine’s, Bristol A.R.C. is giving your dating life a glow-up; while helping rescue animals get the love they actually deserve.

Please Note: This campaign is just a bit of fun! Our rescues have already been through so much and meeting desperate singles just for a photo, sadly isn’t going to happen. BUT Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s dedicated marketing team will provide you with the perfect dating profile photo featuring a very cute dog.

Here’s what you get:

How It Works

Step 1:  Donate
Give any amount to support Bristol Animal Rescue Centre

Step 2: Send Your Photo
 Upload a picture of yourself (we’ll guide you on the best types of photos). Email it to communications@bristolarc.org.uk with your name you made a donation under.

Step 3: Meet Your Perfect Wingman
 Our team will Photoshop you with an irresistibly cute dog and send your finished image ready for Hinge, Bumble, Tinder and beyond. This will be authenticated with an official ‘I donated to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’ badge – good looking, dog friendly and generous; we are swiping right!

Voting Now Open: Support Your Rescue’s Fundraising Team!

We’re proud to share that Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been recognised in two categories at the Access Impact Awards 2026, and now we need your help to win.

Our much-loved Snip Happens campaign received Highly Commended in the Awareness Campaign of the Year category. The playful Valentine’s campaign encouraged people to donate towards neutering a dog or cat in honour (or dishonour!) of an ex, helping us neuter around 600 animals every year and prevent unwanted litters.

We’re also thrilled to be finalists for Fundraising Campaign of the Year with our Calm Amongst the Chaos campaign, which supports animals’ wellbeing during the major building work surrounding the centre through specialist equipment, behaviour support and off-site enrichment.

This recognition is thanks to our incredible supporters and now rather than the animals needing you, the fundraising team do! Voting does not require sign up and takes a couple of seconds.

Vote Now

Please vote for Bristol Animal Rescue Centre today and help us get recognised for the hard work of our fundraising team.

Bristol’s Recovered Red Flag Rabbit: Meet Whippy (Now on Hinge)

Whippy is a one-year-old neutered male rabbit who used to wave a couple of red flags… but in the most lovable way possible.

He’s confident, he’s dominant and he used to be partial to a hump. Since neutering this behaviour has curtailed and we know there’s a female bun who is looking for this kind of energy in her life.

Whilst Whippy does give a few red flags (the humping used to be quite a big one on first dates), and he is likely to steal food off your plate. He’s very food-motivated and will take treats straight from your hand without hesitation. Confidence? Through the roof.

Green flags? He’s a total softie cute boy who will happily come and sit on your lap.

Whippy is lucky enough to have found a new home (as of Wednesday!). He may like to be in charge, but it was time for someone to love him for exactly who he is.

Ashley Ferguson, Animal Carer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said ‘While Whippy used to show some red flags, since neutering the humping has stopped. He’s also a total softie who will happily come and sit on your lap once he’s decided you’re worthy of his affection.’

Red flags:
 🚩 Dominant
 🚩 Ex Humper
 🚩 Thinks he’s the boss

Green flags:
 Incredibly friendly
 Loves people
 Lap-sitting softie
 No health issues
 Big personality, bigger heart

So we are making this Valentines day a day for Whippy to officially become Bristol’s Recovered Red Flag (Rabbit)… but the kind you fall for anyway.

 

Meet Dipper & Dani: Bristol’s Inseparable Lovebirds

This Valentine’s Day, love is truly in the air at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, thanks to Dipper and Dani, a bonded pair of lovebirds who are inseparable. As their names suggest, these two share a deep bond and spend their days cuddling, flying, singing, and enjoying life together.

Both birds came into our care when their previous owner could no longer look after them. They are used to free flying around the room and enjoy exploring their environment together.

Dipper and Dani are not hand-tame, so they wouldn’t suit a home looking to handle them frequently. They much prefer to be left to their own devices, where they can cuddle up and fly around. With an experienced owner and a quiet home, we’re confident they could gradually become more comfortable with gentle interaction.

Both love their perches, swings, and toys, and are an absolute joy to watch. They can be vocal and enjoy a little chat with the staff, adding even more charm to their already inseparable partnership.

7 Fun Facts About Lovebirds

  1. Social by Nature: Lovebirds are highly social and form strong bonds with their partners, often staying close together for life.
  2. Vocal Communicators: They love to “chat,” making soft chirps, whistles, and calls to each other and their human companions.
  3. Small but Mighty: Despite their tiny size, lovebirds are energetic, playful, and curious about everything around them.
  4. Colorful Characters: Their vibrant plumage isn’t just for show; it helps them recognize and bond with each other.
  5. Cuddle Experts: True to their name, lovebirds snuggle frequently with their mate, showing affection through preening and nuzzling.
  6. Toy Lovers: Swings, bells, and chew toys aren’t just fun, they keep lovebirds active, engaged, and mentally stimulated.
  7. Long-lived Commitment: In the right home, lovebirds can live 10–15 years, making them a long-term, loving companion.

We’re a Finalist! Bristol Animal Rescue Centre at the Bristol Life Awards

We’ve got some pawsome news to share, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is officially a finalist in the Bristol Life Awards!

Being recognised alongside so many brilliant local organisations is a massive honour, and we couldn’t be prouder of our team, volunteers, supporters, and of course the incredible animals who inspire everything we do.

Originally started as Bristol Home for Lost and Starving Dogs in 1887, we became a charity in 1963. We have always remained an integral part of supporting the lives of pets most in need within the Bristol area.

To be named a finalist shows recognition of the compassion, hard work, and dedication that goes into rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals every single day. We remain committed to providing animal welfare support for those that need it; for people, for pets, for Bristol.

 

Single Ladies Looking for Love This Valentine’s Day at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre

This Valentine’s Day, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is playing Cupid for a group of beautiful single ladies hoping to find their forever homes. Each animal has her own personality, quirks, and charm and all are ready to give unconditional love to the right match.

Gloria, a cuddly bull-breed with a big heart and a bigger personality, is looking for an experienced home with someone around most of the day. She enjoys quieter walks, loves learning, and adores cuddles.

 

Maya may be small, but she’s full of attitude. An independent queen, she’s seeking a calm, adults-only home where she can live life on her own terms and build trust at her own pace.

Brandi, a nine-year-old Jack Russell, is a total sweetheart who loves attention, treats, and enrichment. She’s best suited to a quiet home with someone around during the day and must be the only dog in the household.

Tiana, a four-year-old crossbreed, is a total cuddlebug! She is a clever girl that walks nicely on lead. This big lady is unaware of her size and can forget her manners but once she has showed you how much she loves you she’s a good girl.

If you think you could be the perfect match for one of these lovely ladies, visit Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s website and apply today.

 

Snowy’s Story: Why Fostering Matters

When Snowy arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, his world had already taught him to be afraid. Brought in by RSPCA inspectors from a multi-cat household, he was under-socialised, shut down, and wary of people. He didn’t seek affection, didn’t want handling, and preferred to keep his distance. The team knew Snowy wasn’t a typical “lap cat” and believed he would be happiest in a quiet farm or rural setting, where he could choose how much, if any, interaction he had with humans.

At first, Snowy hid. He hissed when overwhelmed. But underneath the fear was a gentle soul who loved his food and had never shown true aggression, he was just afraid. He tolerated people from afar, especially if snacks were involved, and slowly settled into a routine. He was struggling in the cattery so it was decided to place him in a foster home with George and Brooke. This changed everything.

When Snowy went into foster care, his carers were prepared for a challenge. They were told he might never enjoy touch or affection. But what they discovered was not a difficult cat just a scared one. With time, patience, and consistency, Snowy began to feel safe. His walls didn’t come down all at once, but day by day.

“The cat who once hid and hissed transformed into a boy who sought out affection. Snowy learned to trust. He became cuddly, confident, and eager for human connection.” Said George and Brooke. What was meant to be a temporary foster placement became his forever home; a proud failed foster!

Kayleigh, Foster Coordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said ‘Snowy’s story is a powerful reminder of why fostering is so important. Fostering gives animals the chance to show who they really are outside a stressful shelter environment. It helps cats transition, builds their confidence, and in many cases, completely rewrites their future.’

By fostering, you’re not just helping one animal you’re freeing up space so more can be rescued, supported, and given a second chance. Snowy’s happy ending exists because someone opened their home and their heart.

Sometimes, all it takes to change a life is patience, love, and the courage to give an animal a chance – a perfect match for a perfect cat!

 

Turning Creativity into Care: Our Fundraising Campaigns Receive Recognition.

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre fundraising office. Our Fundraising and Communications team has been recognised in two categories for our hard work!

We have been awarded Highly Commended in the “Awareness Campaign of the Year” category at the Access Impact Awards 2026, recognising the creativity and impact of our much-loved “Snip Happens” campaign.

This was a highly competitive category, and while we weren’t selected as a finalist this time, the judges felt the campaign deserved special recognition for its originality, humour, and powerful message around responsible pet ownership.

Launched around Valentine’s Day, Snip Happens offered the public a playful yet meaningful way to channel post-breakup feelings into something positive. Participants were invited to donate towards the neutering of a dog or cat in honour, or dishonour, a less-than-faithful former flame.

Behind the humour, the campaign delivered a serious and vital message. Bristol Animal Rescue Centre neuters around 600 animals every year, helping to prevent unwanted litters, reduce pressure on rescue services and improve the long-term health and welfare of cats and dogs.

As if that wasn’t enough, we’re also delighted to announce that Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been shortlisted as a finalist in the “Fundraising Campaign of the Year” category at the Access Impact Awards 2026 for our Calm Amongst the Chaos campaign; raising awareness of the building work that is currently surrounding the site and the measures we are taking to reduce impact of this onto on site animals.

‘The public really connected with our call to improve the emotional and physical wellbeing of every animal on site.’ Said Erin Stow, Individual Giving Officer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. ‘With the help of specialist equipment, off site field visits, expert behaviourists and a very experienced care team, animals are carefully monitored and guided toward successful rehoming but it comes at a cost. It was so wonderful to see the people of Bristol see the world through our animals’ eyes and do what they could to make their stays with us more comfortable.’ 

This is a huge achievement in a closely contested category, and a testament to the passion, creativity, and hard work of our team. Finalists will be announced publicly on Monday 26th January, and we will be asking for your support once again throughout the public vote.

“Thank you to everyone who supported us through the Snip Happens and Calm Amongst the Chaos campaigns’ Said Holly Mansfield, Marketing and Communications Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. ‘Your donations, shares, and sense of humour and understanding of the importance of a calming environment in healing journeys helped turn heartbreak into hope for hundreds of animals in need.’

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre Appoints New Chair of Trustees 
 
Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is delighted to announce the appointment of Ben Davies as its new Chair of Trustees. With a strong commitment to animal welfare and a wealth of leadership experience, Ben joins the charity at an exciting time as it continues to grow its impact across the Bristol area. Ben said:

“I am delighted to have been appointed Chair of Trustees at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and to be joining such a passionate, long‑standing organisation at an exciting time in its journey.

By way of background, I am Commercial Director for Major Projects at AtkinsRealis, working within its Nuclear EMEA business. My career has included senior risk and commercial roles in multinational engineering consultancy, EDF Energy’s New Build Nuclear programme, and the London 2012 Olympics. I also sit on the Regulatory Tribunal of the RICS.

Outside of work, I am married with twins, James and Freya, who keep me busy – mostly on the football sidelines and as a taxi. I enjoy reading, walking, and getting out for a weekly run. I’m an enthusiastic American Football fan and a former quarterback for Bristol and university teams.

At home, we share our lives with Bonnie, our RSPCA rescue cat, who proudly follows a long line of much‑loved feline predecessors. I look forward to meeting many of you soon and supporting the vital work Bristol A.R.C.does for animals and the community.”

A Church, a Cat, and a Second Chance

Onyx, a stunning silver Bengal mix with a short tail, arrived at Bristol A.R.C. as a stray after spending several weeks in the Brislington area. Extremely fearful and difficult to catch, he showed no obvious signs of illness or injury but was clearly not comfortable with human handling.

While Onyx is not a tame cat and remains uncomfortable with touch, he has made steady progress during his time with us. With patience and consistency, he has learned to trust staff in his own way, happily sitting nearby, taking treats from the hand, and engaging in play. He is currently undergoing carrier training, which will continue in his new home.

Due to his nature, Onyx was never suited to a traditional home environment. Instead, he has now begun a new chapter as a church cat at Downend Baptist Church.
The church has carefully prepared a warm, quiet, and private space for him, complete with climbing shelves, safe hiding areas, and a lockable cat flap. A large garden at the rear of the building will provide plenty of outdoor exploration once he has settled. Initially, Onyx will remain indoors to help him adjust.

A dedicated care team will check on him daily, ensuring his welfare while respecting his need for minimal handling. To ease the transition, Onyx was even gently introduced to church sounds, including organ music, during his time at Bristol A.R.C.

Onyx’s journey shows that not every cat needs a conventional home, just the right one. We’re thrilled to see him settled into a space where he can live life on his own terms.

 

Christmas Kindness at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre: Sharing Love with Those Still Waiting for Forever Homes

This Christmas, while many families gather at home, the dedicated staff at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre are stepping through the doors with open hearts, ensuring that no animal is left without warmth, care, and companionship during the festive season.

For animals still waiting to find their forever families, Christmas can be a quieter time. But thanks to the commitment of the rescue team every hopeful gaze is met with kindness, comfort, and love.

Among those spending the holidays at the centre is Peaches, an older Husky with a soft soul and an introverted nature. Peaches is a gentle girl who thrives with people who understand and appreciate the wonderfully quirky personalities that Huskies are known for. She’s patiently waiting for adopters who will see past her age and recognise the loyal companion she has to offer.

Nessa, a loving and affectionate crossbreed, would happily spend her Christmas curled up with her favourite humans. She adores people and lives for cuddles, making her the perfect companion for someone seeking a dog who wants nothing more than to share love and affection all day long.

Then there’s Cody, a handsome eight-year-old Yorkshire Terrier with a big personality. Friendly and sociable, Cody enjoys being around people on his own terms. While he’s not always a lap dog, he’ll wander over for affection when the moment feels right and loves lying close by.

Spending their first Christmas safe and cared for are Chia and Sesame, two beautiful kittens who came into rescue after a stressful start in a multi-cat household. Now thriving in foster care alongside their devoted mum, these kittens have blossomed into well-socialised, friendly little characters thanks to the incredible work of their foster carer.

Behind every animal is a team of compassionate staff and volunteers who sacrifice their own festive time to ensure that those without families still feel valued and cherished. From extra walks and cuddles to quiet moments of reassurance, the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre team continues to show that Christmas is about giving, especially to those who need it most.

‘Our team truly prioritises making sure all our animals feel love every day of the year without exception. For an animal at a rescue centre, Christmas is just another day in the kennels, but it’s really important we try to make it special for them. Keeping their spirits up and working hard to get them to their forever homes as soon as possible.’ Said Holly Mansfield, Marketing and Communications Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

‘It’s a time of year we really rely on community support, whether it’s sharing a social media post, talking about rescue animals with your friends or even making a donation to help pay to keep the lights on; this is the stuff that gets animals out of here – and as much as we love having them; they deserve a family of their own.’

To find out more about Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, or make a donation please visit: https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/appeal/give-back-press/

A few of our Christmas guests:

Roo is a beautiful blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier, around 5 years old, whose story is one of resilience, care, and unconditional love. She was brought to Bristol A.R.C. by the RSPCA, who had to intervene in her previous home as she needed urgent medical attention. From the moment she arrived, Roo has received the love, attention, and care she had always deserved.

 

Her early life was challenging. She has faced difficulties that many dogs should never experience, including medical issues and the demands of having had at least one litter, possibly more, before coming to us. While in our care, Roo also experienced a phantom pregnancy, an event that can be both physically and emotionally taxing for dogs.

 

When Roo first arrived, her ears were so badly inflamed from past neglect that it was uncertain if they would ever heal and allow her to be truly comfortable. Alongside her other medical needs, this caused her significant discomfort. Roo’s health is now carefully managed, including luxating patellas (which means both knees sometimes slip out of place), and skin allergies that require long-term medication and a sensitive diet. Thanks to her current treatment, these do not affect her daily life. With patience, care, and the right treatment, Roo has overcome these challenges and is now happy, comfortable, and thriving – A place we once worried she might never get to.

 

Her experiences have shaped Roo into a gentle and affectionate soul. In foster care, she thrives on routine, reassurance, and plenty of cuddles, and she has grown into a confident and loving companion who adores being close to people. She is remarkably strong, and we are incredibly proud of her.

 

Roo is now ready for the next chapter of her life: a permanent, loving home where she can enjoy the simple pleasures of life, give and receive affection, and be the devoted companion she has always been meant to be.

Gary, a six-year-old black Shar-Pei cross found wandering the streets of Fishponds, came into our care at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in need of time, treatment, and love. During his stay, Gary underwent both ear and eyelid surgery to make him comfortable and get him healthy. Once healed, he was able to enjoy life without the constant irritation he had likely suffered from for a long time.

Gary was with us for 139 days, during which he received a scattering of interest from potential adopters, but none that ultimately led to a forever home. In the meantime, he became part of our family here.

Gary had been doing so well and all his daily observations were normal. One day Gary began to strain a little when going to the toilet, so our vets investigated. Sadly, they discovered something worrying: a large mass in his bladder, about the size of a large orange. While under anaesthetic, the kindest decision was made to let Gary go peacefully, stopping any future pain or discomfort. His close carers gathered to share their love, say their goodbyes, and ensure he made his way to the rainbow bridge surrounded by those who adored him.

Gary was a truly special boy. He loved his walks with our volunteer dog-walker, Robin, who described him as a “superb boy.” He had a wonderfully cheeky side too; his carers would often laugh about how he tried to “mug us of our treats.” He enjoyed days out with staff, and one highlight was a mega adventure, where he explored nature, enjoyed a cheeky puppuccino, and true to Gary’s quirky character, was absolutely not impressed by getting his paws dirty.

Although Gary came to us as a stray hoping to find his forever home, we focused on giving him the love, care, and joy he deserved every day. Not every rescue pet finds their perfect family, but Gary certainly found his people. And for Gary, that was all he ever needed.

 

Meet Our Bunny Stars: Oxo & Aquarius Hop Into the Spotlight

Did you know an estimated 67,000 bunnies in the UK need a home?

Rabbits are so often seen as a “starter” pet, yet with an average life span of 7 to 12 years, they are anything but basic. They’re intelligent, sociable animals, full of curiosity and personality, and sadly, many end up being abandoned when their needs are misunderstood.

That’s why we were absolutely delighted when Animed, the online pet retailer, chose to feature two of our beautiful rescue rabbits, Oxo and Aquarius, in their latest advertising campaign. Their aim is to encourage more people to adopt rather than buy a rabbit, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

“There’s over 60,000 rabbits in the UK looking for a home and we want to encourage people to give these lovable pets a second chance,” says vet Jess Simmonds from Animed. “With thousands of bunnies waiting for their forever home, Animed is delighted to use this opportunity to promote animal adoption.”

From our side, we couldn’t be prouder to see our bunnies hopping into the spotlight.
“We are thrilled Animed has chosen Oxo and Aquarius to be the stars of their new advertising campaign,” says our very own Holly Mansfield from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. “This is a wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on adopting a rabbit and the joy of offering a pet a loving home.”

Alongside championing adoption, Animed has also been highlighting the importance of preparation and commitment when welcoming a new pet into your home – from food and toys to bedding, enrichment and healthcare. As a trusted one-stop pet care retailer, they offer everything new owners need to ensure their rabbit (or any pet!) thrives from day one.

Animed vet Jess’ Top 10 Tips for Preparing to Adopt a Pet

  1. Prepare a safe space where your new pet can retreat and feel secure as they adjust.

  2. Give them time to decompress. Rescue animals may feel overwhelmed at first.

  3. Stick to a routine with regular feeding times, enrichment, and bedtime to build trust.

  4. Limit visitors initially so they aren’t overwhelmed by too many new faces.

  5. Let them come to you. Avoid forcing interactions—trust grows when pets make the first move.

  6. Use positive reinforcement such as treats, praise or play to reward calm behaviour.

  7. Keep things calm with soft voices, slow movements and minimal loud noise.

  8. Introduce other pets gradually using scent swapping and supervised meetings.

  9. Visit the vet early for a health check and to discuss any questions or concerns.

  10. Be patient and compassionate. Every rescue pet has a unique history, and progress takes time—but love and consistency work wonders.

While Animed is not a formal partner of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we deeply appreciate their support. They’ve generously made a monetary donation, along with a box of rabbit food and accessories, to help other animals currently in our care.

We’re incredibly proud of Oxo and Aquarius for starring in this campaign, and even prouder of the message it helps share. If you’re thinking about adding a rabbit to your family, please consider adopting. You might be surprised just how much love (and personality!) is waiting for you.

And here is a first peek of star Aquarius on camera! Click here

Three legged and Three times as sweet – Meet Gingerbread

Not the buttons… not the gumdrop buttons! This little gingerbread may have lost her leg but she is still as cute as a…button….

Gingerbread came to us after straying and having suffered a suspected road-traffic accident that left her with a badly broken leg. Sadly, the leg couldn’t be saved and had to be amputated. But don’t worry, this resilient little sweetheart hasn’t let it dampen her spirit!

Gingerbread is incredibly affectionate, confident, and friendly. She loves exploring, sniffing around, and playing with toys, especially ones with bells. After she’s had her little adventure, she’ll trot back to you to curl up on your lap. She’s also wonderfully vocal and will happily chat away when she wants your attention.

She will purr the moment she sees you, that’s how loving she is.

Flame our Clinical Nursing Assistant has been caring for Gingerbread as she adjusts to her new 3 legged life said ‘If you’re looking for a devoted, cuddly companion with a big heart and a brave spirit, Gingerbread might just be your perfect match.’

‘Gingerbread is a young tripod girl who may need a little extra support as she continues to grow, but she’s already adapting wonderfully. Even someone with limited cat experience will be able to meet her needs, she’s an easy, loving companion.’

Good luck Gingerbread!

Captain and Lolly: Love Lifts Them to New Heights

Domestic birds arrive at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre throughout the year, each one given a full health check before settling in with our animal care team. Some come to us injured, some lost, and some simply in need of a safe place to recover.

Captain, a cockatiel found in a garden in September, arrived unable to fly. Despite being able to flap strongly, he couldn’t gain proper height, and a vet check revealed missing feathers and signs of an old chest injury. With a carefully adapted cage, climbing toys, and steady physiotherapy-style enrichment, Captain slowly rebuilt his strength.

A month later Lolly, another cockatiel, came to us after what was likely a bird or cat attack. She had multiple injuries but recovered well with treatment. Like Captain, she initially couldn’t fly, and like Captain, she had a particular love of mirrors and cockatiel videos.

Because of their similar needs and temperaments, we introduced them gradually. They took to each other calmly and quickly, spending their days perched side by side, exploring their environment, and providing quiet companionship.

As the weeks passed, both birds continued to heal. What began as short wing stretches became controlled flutters, then confident lifts, and eventually full, sustained flight. Today, Captain and Lolly are both flying comfortably again! An outcome that once felt uncertain for each of them.

They now share their space as fully mobile, active birds, flying between perches, engaging with new enrichment, and showing just how far steady care and time can take a recovery.

Their story is a reminder that rehabilitation doesn’t always follow a straight line, but with patience and the right support, even grounded birds can take back to the air.

Searching for a Room at the Inn: Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Safety

Early November brought two tiny, trembling souls through the doors of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, a pair of young pups with big eyes and even bigger hearts. They were carried in together by a kind member of the public, tucked safely inside a washing basket lined with blankets. That was the first step of their journey from fear to love.

Meet Mary and Joseph, a duo estimated to be around six months old. They’re a delightful mix of Jack Russell and Chihuahua, small in size but already showing glimpses of the enormous personalities waiting to shine through once they feel safe.

When they first arrived, Mary and Joseph were absolutely terrified. Everything was new and overwhelming; the sights, the smells, the sounds of the rehoming centre. 

It was decided by our behaviour team that these dogs would benefit from being placed into foster and to be separated. This would allow them to get the one to one care they needed.

Joseph has settled beautifully into his foster home and is showing his sweet, playful personality. He is growing in confidence; happily comes for affection on his own or climbs into your lap. 

Mary’s foster family reports that she loves all treats and tennis balls. She has settled well and sleeps nicely on her bed – but will sometimes sneak a sofa cuddle!

Both of these festive angels are now available to adopt.

 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) is facing its most challenging Christmas yet, after seeing a 26% surge in pets being signed over by their owners, a record-breaking rise that reflects the growing pressures on families across the city.

By Christmas Day, the charity expects to have taken in nearly 950 animals this year, almost three every single day marking a 10% increase in intake in just two years. 

Every number tells a heartfelt story. The cost of living crisis is straining families, making it harder to care for their beloved pets. As they face personal challenges, it’s heartbreaking that 29% of animal admissions result from tough decisions to part with their companions due to the rising cost of living, changes or challenges in behaviour, or personal crisis .

“We’re seeing more and more people having to make the hardest decision of all;  to surrender a much-loved pet,” said Lee Coombs, Assistant Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. 

 “Our team is working tirelessly to care for every animal that comes through our doors, but we urgently need the community’s support to keep up with the demand.”

This Christmas, Bristol A.R.C. is calling on the public to “Give Back to the Animals Who Give Us So Much.”. 

“Fortunately, most animals in Bristol are in loving homes that are able to care for them, but there are many that don’t have the care they expect, need or deserve. Sadly, the ones that come through our doors really are hitting rock bottom with nowhere else to go” said Erin Stow, Individual Giving Officer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Donations can provide everything from specialist food and veterinary care to behavioural support and safe refuge for frightened animals:

Mr Chandler’s Legacy: How One Man’s Love for Animals Lives On

Every once in a while, a story comes along that reminds us just how powerful kindness can be; even after someone’s gone.

Meet Mr Chandler, a cheeky little Yorkshire Terrier with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging. But this pup’s name isn’t just cute; it carries a truly special meaning.

Chandler was named in honour of Mr Chandler, an elderly gentleman whose final act of generosity is now changing the lives of countless animals in need. Mr. Chandler had named Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and the RSPCA in his Will, ensuring his love for animals would continue to make a difference long after his passing. 

Sadly Mr Chandler had been the victim of financial exploitation. The Financial Investigation

Unit worked tirelessly to make sure justice was served, and that his wishes were respected including ensuring compensation that was due was also given to his named charities. Thanks to their dedication, funds recovered through the investigation were returned to where they were meant to go all along.

To celebrate his compassion and legacy, Bristol A.R.C has named one of their newest residents after him, a sweet Yorkshire Terrier now known as Mr Chandler.

This pint-sized pup has already become a staff favourite, charming everyone with his playful personality and boundless affection. And thanks to the late Mr Chandler’s lasting gift, this pup is just one of the many animals who will receive love, care, and a second chance at happiness.

The police also donated a bundle of toys to make life at the rescue centre even brighter.

Erin Stow, Individual Giving Officer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said ‘We are so grateful to those like Mr. Chandler for their generosity, as well as the Financial Investigation Unit for ensuring his wishes were fulfilled. Mr. Chandler’s legacy donation will be a lasting support for thousands of animals that come into our care, and we hope it inspires others to consider leaving a gift in their Will to support animals in need.’

Mr Chandler’s story is a beautiful reminder that legacy gifts aren’t just about money, they’re about love, impact, and the difference one person can make. We will always be grateful for Mr Chandler thinking of us.

By choosing to leave a gift in your Will to animal welfare charities like Bristol A.R.C, you’re helping to build a future where every animal is safe, cared for, and loved. If you’d like to learn more about Legacies please visit: https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/donate/gifts-in-wills/

Captain and Lolly, love is the new wind beneath their wings

Once a month or so domestic birds enter Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Once checked over thoroughly for bird flu and any other health issues they are welcomed by our animal care team. 

Captain, a cockatiel, arrived in September after being found in a garden, unable to fly. Though he could flap his wings, he could only lift a metre off the ground. A vet check revealed missing feathers and an old chest injury. With gentle care, a special cage full of climbing toys, and plenty of enrichment, Captain began to regain his strength and enjoy a quality of life with his feet on the ground (or a perch!).

A month later, another cockatiel named Lolly came to us via a local vet after suffering multiple injuries, likely from a bird or cat attack. She recovered well but, like Captain, was also unable to fly. Both birds loved their mirrors and enjoyed watching cockatiel videos, so we decided to see if they might enjoy each other’s company.

After a couple of weeks of gentle introductions, Captain and Lolly have become inseparable, with mirrors only now required to admire their own beauty. Now they spend their days singing, playing, and keeping each other company, a beautiful reminder that love and happiness can flourish, even when wings can’t.

“These Dogs Are Just for Christmas”, Our Urgent Appeal for Experienced Foster Homes This Festive Season

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) has launched its ‘These Dogs Are Just for Christmas’ campaign to find urgent foster homes for dogs struggling in kennels over the festive period and beyond.

While Christmas is a time of comfort and celebration for many, for the dogs in Bristol A.R.C.’s care; especially active, working breeds or those with complex behaviours; it can be one of the hardest times of year. Despite the team’s dedicated enrichment activities and expert behaviour support, life in kennels can be stressful and overwhelming for dogs that thrive on routine, space, and human companionship.

Bristol A.R.C. usually can rely on a large network of foster carers to provide short-term homes for dogs who need extra support. However, during the festive period, many regular foster families are away, hosting visitors, or holding gatherings; situations that some nervous or reactive dogs simply can’t cope with.

The charity is now urgently seeking foster families planning quieter Christmases, who can open their homes and hearts to a dog in need, over this period and beyond.

“Whilst we have a very strong foster network – these dogs have specific needs at a period of time that can be stressful for pets and people alike.” said Kayleigh Jefferies, Foster Coordinator from Bristol A.R.C.

“We love our current foster families but have identified a need for support from homes without resident animals, no children and generally planning a quiet Christmas. Experience with behavioural issues would be really valuable” 

Bristol A.R.C. provides everything needed: food, bedding, toys, and veterinary care, completely free of charge. Foster carers offer time, love, and stability, giving these dogs the best possible chance of finding their forever homes.

To foster, applicants should live within a 30-minute drive of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and be able to provide a calm, stable environment and transport the dog for appointments if needed.

Meet Some of the Dogs Waiting This Christmas

Peggy – A sweet, three-legged Collie with a huge heart. Intelligent, affectionate, and playful once she feels safe, Peggy finds kennel life especially tough. She’s looking for a quiet home with a garden where she can gain confidence at her own pace.

Drax – A one-year-old Pocket Bully who came into our care as a stray. Though now healthy, he finds long periods in kennels difficult and urgently needs a foster home where he can enjoy comfort, enrichment, and companionship.

Phil – A bright and energetic two-year-old Kelpie cross who loves to learn and stay busy. Phil is looking for an active foster home that can keep his sharp mind and energetic body occupied while helping him polish his lead manners.

“Inviting one of these dogs over the Christmas period (and beyond!) is such a gift of true kindness,” added Kayleigh. “Companionship helps a dog feel safe, loved, and ready for their next chapter.”

To find out more or apply to foster, visit https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/foster-an-animal/

 

Partnership in Action: Supporting Pet Owners in Hartcliffe & Withywood

University of Bristol Vet School and Bristol Animal Rescue Centre have been teaming up over the last few months to help local pet owners overcome the challenges of keeping their much-loved animals at home. Hosting a monthly drop in session for pet owners to learn about best pet care practices from grooming your pet to managing fleas and worms.

Working in partnership with the University of Bristol Vet School, Langford Vets, the Bristol Paws Project, and the University’s Civic Team, this collaboration brought together a wide range of skills; from clinical expertise to community engagement, event planning, and marketing. The Hartcliffe & Withywood Microcampus at the Gatehouse Centre, managed by HWV, provided the ideal local venue for the project. 

Although the team initially planned to be out in the community later in the year, there was a clear need for pet support so it was decided that the first event launched months sooner than originally planned. Fortunately, the launch was a great success with pet owners arriving steadily throughout the afternoon, eager to collect free pet food and receive friendly advice. Supplies ran low quickly, a clear sign that this service was much needed.

Since then, attendance has grown each month, with over 45 participants joining the October drop-in. The project’s success is down to the enthusiasm of local residents and the dedication of all partner organisations. Together, they’ve created a welcoming, practical hub for pet owners in the Hartcliffe and Withywood community.

Amber Baylis, Community Pet Support Coordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said

‘It is such a great opportunity for a wonderful team of passionate professionals from across the city to unite in supporting pet owners that need it the most’

‘Whilst we are all feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis it is more important than ever to support people in looking after their pets and keeping those pets in the homes that love them. We believe that these services act as a step towards a reduction in the need of rehoming centres and ultimately surrendering their well loved family members.’

Watch this space for details of our upcoming events and please help spread the word to any local pet owners who might benefit.

 

Pumpkin Opens Her Eyes to a Brighter Future

When Pumpkin was found wandering the streets of Bristol, her future looked uncertain. A caring member of the public brought her to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, where it was clear she’d been struggling for some time. Her left eye in particular was in poor condition; she presented with a large, red, inflamed eye that we were unsure we could save.

“The eye was in a terrible state on arrival, and enucleation (removal) was certainly looking likely,” said Head Vet Damian Pacini.

Because of Pumpkin’s fiery personality, frequent eye drops weren’t possible. Instead, our team treated her with oral medication to keep her comfortable and infection-free. Through consistent care and monitoring, against the odds, her eye began to heal.

Sometimes just meeting basic care needs and creating a safe space for an animal gives them enough time to allow them to heal before going down the surgery route.

Now, with only a small amount of scar tissue remaining, Pumpkin is expected to have around 80–90% vision.

Pumpkin has now found her forever home with one of Bristol Animal Rescue Centres staff members, Flame.

Help more animals like Pumpkin find their happy ending by supporting Bristol Animal Rescue Centre today.

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From Hemingway to Harbourside: Six-Toed Kitten Lands at Bristol Animal Rescue

Sailors once believed that cats with extra toes brought good fortune at sea, and now one particularly lucky kitten has arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Meet Ernest, a 12-week-old grey-and-white ragdoll kitten with six toes on each of his front paws. Named after the famous author Ernest Hemingway, who adored cats with this unusual trait, Ernest carries on a tradition that spans centuries and oceans.

These so-called “Hemingway cats” are scientifically known as polydactyl cats. Instead of the usual 18 toes, polydactyls may have up to 28. The dominant gene behind their mitten-like paws was especially prized among sailors, who believed the extra digits gave the cats superior hunting skills and better balance on deck. Seen as a symbol of luck and protection, they often sailed across the Atlantic, which is why today polydactyl cats are most commonly found along the West Coast of the UK and the East Coast of America.

Over time, these mitten-pawed felines became part of local Bristol lore; some dockworkers believed they kept evil spirits at bay, while others swore their ships would only sail safely if a polydactyl cat was aboard. Even today, Bristol is considered something of a hotspot for these lucky cats, and Ernest is the latest to carry that torch.

“Polydactyl cats are a fascinating link between Bristol’s maritime history and its present-day love of animals,” said Bekah Thrush, Animal Carer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. “Ernest may be small, but he comes with a big legacy and a lot of extra toes. We’re certain he’ll bring good luck to the family who adopts him.”

Ernest was brought in to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre after a member of the public had purchased him from Facebook Marketplace for just £10. They realised he may have required more care than they could offer him but with his charming personality and striking grey-and-white coat, Ernest is already winning hearts at the rescue centre getting all the expert help he needs. This acts as a gentle reminder of the importance of researching before committing to a new pet. With a touch of sailor’s luck in his paws, he’s sure to bring joy to whichever family gives him his forever home.

Friends Reunited – Simon the Cat 

 

After being missing for two months, Simon the cat was finally found by three kind members of the public near Cattle Market Road, close to Temple Meads. They brought him to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

 

Simon was very skinny and had clearly been surviving on scraps. Amazingly, he had travelled over six miles from his home in Shirehampton. On Friday, his relieved owner was finally reunited with him.

 

What to Do if You Find a Cat

 

If injured → Take the cat to the nearest vets straight away.

 

If not injured → Ask yourself: does it look lost, underweight, or lacking confidence?

 

Steps to follow:

 

Check for a collar and ring the number if there is one.

 

No collar? → Speak to nearby neighbours to see if anyone recognises the cat.

 

Remember: older cats can sometimes look a bit ragged. Before removing it, try local options first:

 

Post in local Facebook groups like Lost and Found Pets.

 

Paper collar the cat, this allows you to leave a message asking if it belongs to someone nearby.

Download printable paper collars here.

 

If no one comes forward, you can take the cat to a vet or to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre to be scanned for a microchip.

 

Thanks to kind people looking out for cats like Simon, more pets can be safely reunited with their families.

52% of Stray Dogs in Bristol Are Unclaimed

Every year, hundreds of stray animals make their way to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (B.A.R.C.) reflecting the ongoing need for responsible pet ownership and community awareness.

So far in 2025, the Centre has taken in 164 stray dogs, dozens of cats and even 10 ferrets. More than half of these strays were not reclaimed by their original owners.

Recent figures show that 37 of the dogs found did not have microchips, making it impossible to trace them back to their homes.

Strays were often found in certain areas, including Lawrence Hill, Clifton Downs, and a cluster across Hartcliffe, Bishport Avenue, and Withywood. Some of the animals were found tied to trees, without any belongings or food and sometimes in very dangerous situations.

“These figures aren’t unusual for us, this is the reality of animal rescue in a big city like Bristol,” said Casey Brown at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. 

“But what they show is how vital microchipping, neutering, and responsible pet ownership are. Far too many animals come through our doors every year that could have been reunited with their families if they were chipped and cared for properly. It’s heartbreaking to see them come in with nothing, alone and no idea what their future may be.”

Peaches (pictured) a 5 month old pug cross was found straying at Bristol Bus Station in February. After being brought to B.A.R.C by a kind member of the public she quickly learnt how to trust again and has found love in her forever home. 

The Centre is reminding Bristolians that: Microchipping is a legal requirement for dogs and cats, and is essential for reuniting all pets with their owners. Abandoning pets not only puts them at risk but can also lead to fines or prosecution.

Adopting or fostering from B.A.R.C. gives these strays a chance to find safe, loving homes. Members of the public who find a stray dog should contact their local dog warden service.

For more information, to make a donation, or to see animals currently up for adoption, visit www.bristolarc.org.uk.

 

On 3rd July, a heavily pregnant dog was brought to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre after being found on Clifton Downs. The tri-colour terrier cross, now named Clementine, was taken in by the dog warden and later fostered by our Animal Home Manager, Jodie ready for labour and early stages of motherhood.

Estimated to be just 18 months old, Clementine had no microchip and no known history. Shortly after arriving in foster care, she gave birth to five puppies. Sadly two of the pups did not survive despite medical intervention and bottle feeding. This is not unusual, particularly in cases where the mother may not have received the right care during pregnancy. 

They were then taken in by a wonderful couple to foster longer term. 

Thanks to Clementine’s dedication and the support of her foster family, two puppies are now thriving and ready to find their forever homes, alongside their wonderful mum.

The little family includes:

The puppies are small (expected to be under 5kg when fully grown) and we expect them to remain similar in size to their mum when fully grown. Clementine is a fantastic mother and enjoys playing with the puppies – she would make a fantastic addition to a family but would prefer companionship and to be around people.

Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager, said: “We sadly see pregnant dogs and puppies coming into the shelter from time to time. It’s always hard to watch such young pups have a rocky start in life, but Clementine has been an amazing mother. With her, our team, and her foster family, these pups have been given the very best chance and are now ready to begin their next chapter.”

Sadly, little Jaffa still requires veterinary investigations, ongoing care and possible veterinary procedures before he can be rehomed. 

We are now inviting adoption applications for Fig and Lemon.

Casey Brown, Reception and Admin Coordinator said ‘It’s still a bit touch and go for little Jaffa, so we are not opening adoption requests or registering any interest at this time. We will keep the public updated on his progress over our social media channels.’

To keep up with the puppies’ journeys follow Bristol Animal Rescue Centre on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

 

 

Operation: New Start for Gary the Shar-Pei

Gary, a 6-year-old black shar-pei cross who was found wandering the streets of Fishponds, has been with us at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre for about a month now. Animals that come to us are very rarely immediately up for adoption; many of them need emotional or physical support before starting their search for their forever home. For Gary, this means undergoing a couple of important operations to make sure he can live a happy, pain-free life.

Gary has a condition called entropion, where his lower eyelid rolls inwards. This means his eyelashes constantly rub against his eye, which is really uncomfortable and can cause ulcers or even damage his vision. The operation will gently reshape his eyelid so it sits properly and stops hurting his eye, a common issue for shar-pei’s. Once he’s healed, Gary should feel so much more comfortable and be able to enjoy his life without irritation.

Also common for the breed, Gary has problems with his ears. Because of the shape of his ear canals, he’s much more likely to get painful infections. To help prevent this, our vets will do a procedure called a lateral ear canal resection. It basically opens up the ear canal so air can flow through more easily, which makes infections far less likely. 

These surgeries are a big step for Gary, but they’ll make an incredible difference to his quality of life. Instead of struggling with constant discomfort, he’ll be able to focus on what really matters, continuing the journey to finding a loving family.

Gary is a sweet, resilient boy who’s been through a lot and has a lot still to face. With a little help from our fantastic veterinary team, he’ll be ready to put his past behind him and start fresh. Good luck Gary!

How you can help:

Trigger Warning: Pet Loss

We don’t tend to share sad stories on our socials as we like to keep the world of rescue positive for our followers but sometimes things happen in our care that really take a toll. In this instance we think it’s important to share this story about a very special dog.

Tash came into our care as a stray at the end of June. She was microchipped but the details were not up to date so we were unable to locate her current owner and no one came forward to claim her.

From her initial intake Tash was a very friendly dog who loved all the people she met, and from her very first session in an off lead space she let us know that playing ball was of utmost importance! 

Tash was an affectionate dog who was happy to spend time with just about everyone she met. She would go out for long walks with our volunteer dog walkers and we always had such lovely feedback from them. Some of the staff even came in on their days off to take Tash out for some time away from kennels which she enjoyed so much – she told us this by dancing with excitement at the end of her lead!

After a few weeks she was posted for adoption and found fantastic applications to offer her a wonderful home in her later years. Unfortunately; Tash didn’t get the chance to enjoy the new adventure waiting for her. 

A few days before her meeting her potential adopters, Tash suffered from an intestinal strangulation. A piece of normal abdominal tissue had formed a “ligament” around the intestine and cut off the blood supply – to an extent in which our veterinary team had not seen in 35 years of professional practice.

Our veterinary team rushed her into theatre but the intestine had already ruptured. They did all they could to repair the intestine and  stabilise her condition and then transferred her to the team at an overnight vets for intensive out of hours care. Despite their brilliant care it became clear that Tash was not going to pull through. We then had to make a heart breaking decision to let her go.

These decisions are not taken lightly and it was an incredibly hard decision for our team to make. It was ultimately the most kind and humane decision; but one that has affected all of our staff members deeply. We also had to inform her potential new family about this terrible situation – they will also be feeling the loss of what could have been.

Whether it was keeping such a special girl entertained and happy during her stay at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, finding a perfect forever home for her or ultimately working so hard to save her life; our team are grieving such a tragic end to what could have been such a wonderful success. It is hard to keep showing up when you are emotionally and physically exhausted but we have many animals here that still need us.

Working in rescue is challenging, but we have all been touched by Tash’s story and believe it is right to share it with our extended family, you, our supporters and followers. Whilst we take the time to remember such a wonderful girl, we will work hard to turn these feelings into more love, compassion and motivation to continue helping, healing and homing for people, for pets and for Bristol.

Kola came to us earlier this year after a sudden change in her owner’s circumstances. When she first arrived, Kola was very worried by all the new sights, sounds and people. For the first few weeks, our team took things slowly, sitting quietly by her kennel, talking to her softly, and rewarding her for each little step forward. 

With time she started to relax, and she soon built a lovely bond with her main carer, Ray. By the third week, she was wagging her tail when she saw Ray and even asking for gentle strokes. Not long after, we were treated to her true personality.

Over the following weeks, Kola grew in confidence. She made new friends among the team, enjoyed playdates with other dogs (sometimes a little too enthusiastically!), and even became a great role model for our puppies, showing them how to play. She bravely completed her muzzle training and health checks, which was a huge achievement for such a worried girl.

After plenty of time and patience, Kola was ready to look for her forever home. Eventually, the perfect family came along, a mother and her son. In a wonderful twist, Kola, who had once been so anxious around men, fell completely in love with her new dad.

We couldn’t be prouder of the progress Kola made during her time with us. It just goes to show what time, patience, and plenty of kindness can do. A huge thank you to our amazing team and to our supporters. Kola has found a wonderful new home where she can bond with her new family.

When Winona (affectionately known as Winnie) first arrived in November 2024, she was a little rough around the edges. Having lived on the streets, her fur was matted, and she hadn’t yet learned the basics of living in a home. Her foster carers had no plans to adopt at the time; their role was simply to provide a safe and loving stopover on her journey to a forever family, but Winnie had other plans!

She settled quickly, showing a remarkable ability to learn and adapt. As she spent more and more time growing in confidence she started to show her personality to her foster family and well, they fell in love! Her family describes her as “probably the happiest dog we have ever met,” and it didn’t take long for them to realise that their foster had become family.

This so-called “failed foster” turned into the most wonderful success.

When the family moved back to London in April 2025, Winnie found herself a job in the big smoke. She recently became a registered therapy dog, ready to bring comfort, smiles, and calm to those who need it most. She’ll be visiting ambulance and fire stations, care homes, and even family courts, places where her gentle nature and infectious happiness can make a real difference.

From the streets of Bristol to a loving home (and a new hire!) Winona’s journey is a shining reminder that sometimes the best stories begin where you least expect or plan them.

It’s something many of us have heard – or even said ourselves:
“My rabbit was always in a hutch and was happy.”

This idea has been around for a long time, but as our understanding of rabbits has grown, so has the way we care for them. Today, we know a lot more about what helps rabbits stay healthy, active, and truly thrive.

A Look Back

Hutches have been used for centuries, originally designed over 1,500 years ago – not as cosy homes for pets, but as a practical way to raise rabbits for meat. These early enclosures were all about efficiency, not welfare.

In 2025, rabbits are beloved companions, and it’s only natural that how we care for them should evolve too.

Why Space Matters

Rabbits are surprisingly energetic, playful, and social animals. They love to run, hop, stretch, explore, and even show off with joyful jumps (called “binkies”). In smaller enclosures like traditional hutches, they often don’t have enough room to express these natural behaviours.

Over time, limited space can lead to health issues such as obesity, joint problems, and signs of boredom or stress. Just like people, rabbits benefit from having space to move and things to do.

Health Risks of Living in Hutches

Confinement in small spaces also makes it harder for rabbits to stay clean and dry, increasing the risk of diseases such as flystrike. Sadly, many hutches still being sold today don’t meet the basic standards for rabbit welfare.

What Does Good Rabbit Housing Look Like?
Indoor Rabbit Housing

Rabbits need a minimum floor area of about 10ft x 6ft (3m x 2m) for a pair. This space should include multiple hiding spots, a sleeping area, a litter tray, food and water stations, and toys for enrichment.

Where to set this up? A spare room, a conservatory, or a dedicated section of a larger room all work well – just make sure the space is safe, escape-proof, and free from hazards like electrical wires and toxic plants. Many rabbit owners successfully use large dog crates attached to a secure run, provided the total area meets those size requirements.

Outdoor Rabbit Housing

If you keep rabbits outdoors, the same size recommendations apply: at least 10ft x 6ft (3m x 2m) of floor space for two rabbits. A traditional hutch can be part of this setup but should only serve as a sleeping or hiding spot – never the sole living area. If you use a hutch, it must be connected to a secure run that the rabbits have access to at all times.

A converted shed or Wendy house are other popular options, which can be excellent for winter protection, as long as they meet space, safety, and hygiene needs.

Key Considerations for Outdoor Housing:
Moving Forward with Care

Keeping rabbits happy and healthy doesn’t mean we need to feel guilty about what we or others used to do – it just means we have the chance to do even better now. With what we know today, we can create spaces that truly support their wellbeing and let their personalities shine.

By offering more room, stimulation, and comfort, we’re not just giving our rabbits a better life – we’re celebrating them for the wonderful companions they are.

Let’s keep learning, keep improving, and give our rabbits the space and care they truly deserve.

With Bristol basking in a sizzling 30°C heatwave, the team at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) has been pulling out all the stops to keep their furry residents chilled and happy in the heat and out of the sun.

From paddling pools to icy enrichment toys, the animals are living their chillest lives. Bristol A.R.C. also received a generous donation of dog-friendly ice cream from the wonderful folks at Marshfield Farm.

“One of our dogs, Moo, dived straight into her pot of ice cream like a pro,” said Martha Whitson, Animal Care Assistant at Bristol A.R.C. “These treats are different, fun, tasty, and a great way to keep our dogs engaged and cool at the same time.”

The rescue is making sure all of its residents are staying safe in the heat, providing all important enrichment and mental stimulation whilst they’re waiting for their forever home.

The team is incredibly grateful to Marshfield Farm for their delicious donation and support. “It might just look like ice cream, but it means a lot, it shows that people care about the wellbeing of our animals, and that kind of kindness is what keeps us going,” said Luke Mitchell, Corporate and Trusts Fundraising Officer.

“Keeping our animals happy takes time and resources. We’ve recently launched a fundraising campaign to help us cover the costs of providing extra enrichment, behavioural training sessions and off lead secure walks.”

To find out how you can help keep animals cool and support Bristol A.R.C. this summer, visit: https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/donate/calm/

If you’re a member of the Lost and Found Pets of Bristol Facebook page, you may remember the big, beautiful boy who was found peacefully snoozing on a stranger’s sofa like he owned the place. That unexpected visitor? None other than Uncle Buck – the gentle giant who stole hearts across the city before he was even officially “found.”

Uncle Buck is a dog with presence, not just in size, but in spirit. He has a way of making people smile, whether he’s lounging on the sofa, pottering around the garden, or gently leaning in for a cuddle. His affectionate nature shines through in everything he does – though he’s learning not to leap with excitement when he sees someone he loves (and that’s most people!).

He’s a laid-back lad who enjoys a daily walk and some enrichment activities to keep his mind active – especially if there’s food involved. Food is definitely his love language. Toys are fun, but not his obsession. What really lights Buck up is being near his people, ideally curled up close enough for head scratches and belly rubs.

Like any good comeback story, Buck has had his share of ups and downs. Uncle Buck can be a little nervous in new places or around sudden noises, but he’s gaining confidence by the day. He walks nicely on the lead, is polite with other dogs and people, and is currently working on staying calm when greeting visitors. His training is going well, and he’d thrive with someone who can keep up the good work while giving him space to grow.

Uncle Buck’s sofa-surfing days are over, but his search for a true home continues. He’s come such a long way, and now he’s ready for his next chapter; one filled with love, security, and soft furnishings.

A New Chapter Begins After Over a Century of Care at the Heart of the City.

After nearly 125 years of rescuing and rehoming animals from its site on Albert Road, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) is preparing for a monumental change: they are planning to move.

The historic Albert Road site has been home to the stray and unwanted pets of Bristol since 1901, a place where thousands of animals have found the comfort, care, and the second chance they deserve. But as the city grows and construction booms in the St Philip’s Marsh area, their surroundings have changed dramatically. Bristol A.R.C. are now enveloped by building works, heavy traffic, dust, and near-constant noise from the regeneration.

“While our mission hasn’t changed, the environment around us has,” says Mike Coe, Interim CEO for Bristol A.R.C. “The area was in need of regeneration but it’s no longer the calm refuge our animals need. It’s time to look forward, and try to find a space that allows our animals, our staff, and our community to breathe again and allow other communities to develop this space.”

The Need for Change

The decision to move has not been taken lightly. The historic site holds deep meaning for generations of Bristolians who have supported the rescue. But the current environment, with ongoing development is making it harder for animals to recover, and highlights the need for change.

“We are actively looking for a new location with good transport links, green spaces and minimal impact on our new neighbours. It’s time for us to branch out  and increase our ability to support more animals and pet owners in Bristol.

In the meantime we need to do all we can to mitigate the impact of local construction on the animals within our care”

A Fundraiser for a Better Future

Bristol A.R.C. is launching a major fundraising campaign to help support the current care of their animals to make sure their stay is as calm as possible. Every donation will help ensure that we can continue our life-saving work in a setting that matches the standard of care our animals deserve.

The charity is committed to supporting the emotional and physical wellbeing of every animal it cares for but this comes at a cost. With the help of expert behaviourists and a very experienced care team, animals are carefully monitored and guided toward successful rehoming. Comfortable raised beds are used to minimise the vibrations caused by nearby construction, but more needs to be done.

Bristol A.R.C. are looking to raise essential funds towards:

“Our rescue centre should be a place of calm where animals can heal and recover,” Bee Lawson, Dog Behaviour Specialist. “But right now, it’s a very challenging environment. With your help, we can create spaces of tranquility amidst the construction chaos and give these animals the comfort and support they so deserve on their journey to forever homes.”

Pet owners in Withywood, Hartcliffe and surrounding areas are invited to a special community event on Wednesday 18 June, where they can enjoy free refreshments and pet food in exchange for completing a short survey about their experiences and challenges of owning a pet.

The event will run from 2 – 4pm at the University of Bristol’s Hartcliffe Microcampus, located in the Gatehouse Centre, Withywood.

This monthly Welcome Drop-in session is hosted by Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) in partnership with Bristol Vet School, Langford Vets, and The Paws Project. The goal is to hear directly from pet owners about what support and information would be most helpful to them, from general pet care to managing costs and housing challenges.

Visitors will have the chance to:

“This is a great opportunity to make your voice heard and shape future support for pet owners in the local community,” says Amber Baylis, Community Pet Support Coordinator at Bristol A.R.C. “We want to know what really matters to you when it comes to caring for your pets.”

Following the June and July advice sessions, these information drop-ins will feature themed discussions from August 2025 onwards. Upcoming  dates include:

These community sessions aim to connect local pet owners with useful resources and practical advice, while creating an open space to discuss common issues and solutions.

Don’t miss this opportunity to receive support, meet fellow pet lovers and help shape the future of pet care in your community.                                                                                                                                                                   

At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we’re incredibly lucky to have volunteers who bring not only their time and energy, but also their passion, dedication, and heart to every moment spent with the animals in our care. One such volunteer is Giulia, whose journey into animal care is both deeply personal and incredibly inspiring.

We recently had the pleasure of asking Giulia a few questions about what brought her to us, what keeps her motivated, and where she hopes this journey will lead. Her words speak for themselves – and we hope they’ll move you as much as they moved us.

What inspired you to volunteer in animal care?

“I’ve grown up around dogs my entire life and each of them helped shape the way I give and receive love. They have always been a central part of my life.

After few years of living in England, I realised how much I missed that connection, and that’s when I met Mia, a beautiful and goofy Cane Corso who changed my life. Mia was incredibly loving and complex, as she struggled with fear-based reactivity toward people. Every walk was stressful, for both of us, as bikes, scooters, or someone walking past could trigger her.

Determined to help her, I reached out to five different trainers and committed to working with her every single day. Slowly, I began to see her transform – less barking, calmer, and eventually, we could sit in the park together without her reacting. The first time that happened, I cried. It was a breakthrough that meant the world to me.

After three incredible years together, Mia passed away due to a rare genetic illness. Losing her shattered me, but through the grief, I realised what I wanted to do with my life: work with complex dogs and help them have the lives they deserve. I left my previous career and began studying canine behaviour.

Volunteering here is a way for me to honour Mia and the journey we shared, as well as to give back to dogs who just need understanding, patience, and a chance.”

Are there any specific animal care skills or knowledge areas you would like to develop further?

“I’m especially interested in developing my skills in behaviour consulting and assessments. I’d like to build more confidence in creating and adapting behaviour modification plans, and I know that gaining more hands-on experience would be incredibly helpful in putting theory into practice.

I’m also really keen to expand my understanding of feline behaviour. Cats communicate very differently from dogs, and I’d love to learn more about their body language, emotional states, and how to support their wellbeing.”

What are your short-term and long-term goals related to animal care or veterinary work?

“My short-term goal is to learn as much as I can through hands-on experience and observation. I want to build practical skills and deepen my confidence so I can overcome the impostor syndrome I sometimes feel. Being around experienced carers and trainers can really help me connect what I’ve studied with real-world application, and I’m eager to keep growing through that process.

My long-term goal is still evolving, but I’d love to work as a freelance dog behaviourist, particularly supporting shelter dogs. I’m also drawn to the idea of one day opening a small rehabilitation centre focused on behavioural recovery. I’m keeping an open mind as I continue to gain experience, but I know I want to dedicate my career to improving the lives of animals – especially those who are often misunderstood.”

What has surprised you about Bristol Animal Rescue Centre?

“What’s really surprised and impressed me is the incredible amount of work the team puts into giving every single animal a real chance – no matter their background or challenges. It’s not just about basic care; it’s the level of dedication, thought, and compassion that goes into each decision, from training and enrichment to medical care and rehoming.

You can really see that everyone here is committed to the animals’ overall wellbeing. It’s made me realise how much is happening behind the scenes to support both the animals and the people who care for them.”

Thank you, Giulia.

Your story, your compassion, and your commitment are exactly what make our volunteer community so special. Thank you for honouring Mia through your work with us and for reminding us all of the power of patience, empathy, and second chances.

Meet Shelley, a dedicated office volunteer at Bristol A.R.C. With a rich background in pastoral support within schools, Shelley brings a compassionate and nurturing spirit to her volunteer role. Since retiring a few years ago, she has embraced the chance to engage with people of all ages, particularly enjoying visits to schools and youth groups to share the important work of BARC.

Her journey with BARC began as a grateful adopter of two lively kittens, Otto and Oscar, and has since blossomed into a passionate commitment to supporting animals and raising awareness in the community.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself outside of volunteering – your background, career, or interests?

I come from a background of working in schools, providing pastoral support to children and their families. Retired a few years ago. I love that my volunteer role gives me the opportunity to engage with people of all ages, but especially enjoy going into schools and youth groups to talk about BARC. Hobbies include yoga, cryptic crosswords and playing the saxophone badly!

What was it like when you first walked into Bristol A.R.C. as a volunteer? Can you describe that moment?

As soon as I walked into BARC for my volunteer interview with Ed, I felt instantly welcome.  There is never a sense of being “just” a volunteer – we are valued as a part of the team.

You adopted two kittens before becoming a volunteer – what impact did that experience have on you?

I adopted two kittens, Otto and Oscar, from BARC just before the pandemic, and they really helped our family navigate the strange times we were all living in. I applied to be a volunteer as soon as lockdown was lifted as I had seen first hand the amazing work that BARC were doing for animals in need. The cats are nearly 6 now, and as mad as ever. My daughter has recently adopted a kitten from BARC too – he’s my grand-kitten!

What do you think people don’t realise about the work Bristol A.R.C. does behind the scenes?

I volunteer in the fundraising team, and when I do community talks it is clear that the public has no idea how much it costs to keep BARC running. Many people I speak to believe that we receive funding from the council to help with costs. People are also unaware of the outreach and preventative work that BARC does, or that we have a foster programme so we can support even more animals in need.

Why do you think community support is so vital for the centre?

I feel privileged to be able to spread the word of the vital work that BARC does via community talks. Even in these difficult financial times, people are so generous, and every donation, however small, is always gratefully received.

What does it mean to you to be part of a team that’s helping thousands of animals every year?

I am very proud to be a part of the team at BARC. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in fun events, learn new skills and work with some amazing people – volunteering is a lot of fun, and I’d recommend volunteering to everyone!

Every runner has a story, and we’ve loved hearing yours.


From honouring loved ones to celebrating rescue pets, our Great Bristol Run team this year was full of passion, purpose and community spirit. We’re so proud of everyone who took part – here’s a look at why they ran, and who they ran for.

Tilly

My step-dad Phil  was diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer’s back when he was 56, this has been an ongoing turbulent road of many ups and downs as the disease progresses. He was a Swimming Coach for City of Bristol, he loved fishing, loved playing jokes and loved his job . All of these things lost to this disease causing him to lose his confidence and purpose.

My mum reached out to Bristol A.R.C. back in 2021 and, whilst they had never been asked to consider a volunteer with Alzheimer’s, they welcomed him to the team . He had been going there every Monday with the support of his friend Alex . It was amazing how the A.R.C. were so supportive of his condition and gave him the opportunity to engage, contribute and feel part of their team . Whilst Phil is unable to attend on a weekly basis now, he loved the time he spent with them and, as family, we will always be thankful that they supported Phil . The work that Bristol A.R.C. do with the animals is amazing, and for me to be able to run the 10k on Phil’s behalf to  raise money is our way as a family of saying a huge thank you for all the support they have given us.

Thank you Bristol A.R.C.

Tilly , Phil , Nicky , Bea & Otis (the sprocker)

Regan and Brett

Brett and I have been getting our running shoes on and heading out for short runs for the last few years, as a way to stay healthy and get moving! 

When we saw that Bristol A.R.C. were looking for people to run the Great Bristol Run for them we decided to sign up for the 10k stretch to support them in raising the needed funds to continue their work with the many animals in their care.

We were particularly keen to support A.R.C. as we are huge dog lovers and the Centre is not only geographically close (we regularly run past while training), but also very close to our hearts; as my mum has rehomed two beautiful Staffie crosses from them in the last 10 years. 

First she rescued the lovely little Tinka, and more recently she took in old man Buzz, who instantly made himself at home, and was a huge help in getting Mum through the grief of loosing Tink. 

So many animals need the help of places like Bristol A.R.C, and their tireless work and commitment is so inspiring, adopted animals truly are so special and can offer so much companionship… and we have been lucky enough to experience this first hand.

If it weren’t for the staff and volunteers at Bristol ARC my mum wouldn’t have found her two best friends, and I know she wouldn’t mind me saying that they have cared for and comforted her, just as much as she has cared for and comforted them! 

Regan & Brett

 

Berenice

Over the past 13 weeks I’ve been training several times a week and gradually building up from being able to jog 2.8 miles, to the 13.1 miles required on race day. I’m raising funds for Bristol A.R.C. because I’m so grateful for the veterinary treatment and care provided to our beloved cat Onion, after he was found alone as a stray kitten in 2023. I follow Bristol A.R.C.’s news, and the positive impact on animals and their families has been a fantastic training motivator! Onion is really well, and he helped me achieve my fundraising target by learning his most ambitious trick to date – jumping through a hoop I make with my arms!

Supporters of the BARC runners

Jonny

I love running half marathons for animal charities because it brings together two things I care deeply about – my passion for animals and my commitment to personal growth. So many animals suffer at the hands of neglectful or abusive owners, and rescue charities work tirelessly to save them, often with little to no government support. My wife and I adopted our current dog from a rescue, and knowing we’ve given him a safe, loving forever home is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I took up running about 18 months ago to improve my mental health and fitness, and setting goals like half marathons helps keep me focused and motivated. When I run to support animal charities, it adds purpose to every mile – I’m not just challenging myself, I’m giving back to those who can’t speak for themselves.

A tri colour cat

Katie

Margaret Maple was rescued by the A.R.C. when she was poorly and a stray. The A.R.C. brought her back to health. Margaret has brought me joy and has made me smile every day for 10 years. Forever grateful!

Helen running for BARC

Helen

As a Vet, I’ve seen first hand the life changing and amazing work that charities such as Bristol Animal Rescue Centre undertake. It’s a wonderful privilege to have run the half marathon for such a fantastic cause. Thank you once again to everyone for their donations and support, I know this will be so beneficial in providing all the wonderful care to the animals that Bristol A.R.C. look after.

Amy running for BARC

Amy

I decided to run the Bristol Half Marathon in support of Bristol A.R.C. Working for the charity, I have seen the impact of Bristol ARC’s work protecting and caring for animals in need, and I wanted to help contribute in a personal way to raise awareness and funds for this amazing charity.

 

If you are feeling inspired and would like to fundraise for us, you can send an email to fundraising@bristolarc.org.uk to request a fundraising pack. Alternatively, fill out the form below and we will keep you updated with future challenge and running events:

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Your support enables us to continue our vital work of helping, healing and homing Bristol’s animals in need, and we look forward to keeping in touch with you by post to share our news, activities and appeals. Please let us know if you are also happy to hear from us by email or telephone:

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If you are already receiving communications from us via these channels, your current preferences will stay the same unless you let us know otherwise. If you would like to opt out or update the way that we contact you, please call our team on 0117 977 6043 or email us at fundraising@bristolarc.org.uk. More info is available at www.bristolarc.org.uk/privacy-policy.

We’re Serving Big Dog Energy and They’re All Looking for Homes! 🐾

At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we never know quite who’ll come through our doors next, that’s the nature of having the stray dog contract. But right now? It’s Big Dog Season, and our kennels are full of lovable, larger-than-life pooches looking for their forever sofas.

Meet some of our Big Dog Energy superstars:

🐶 Roxy – A Cane Corso cross with a heart as big as her paws! Roxy adores meeting new people and is learning to enjoy toys and playtime. She’s loving, loyal, and learning new things every day.

🐶 Murdock – This American Bulldog is all about chill vibes and sofa snuggles. He’s a gentle walker and just needs a bit of reassurance to help him feel secure. A loving home will bring out the best in him.

🐶 Winnie – At 25kg, Winnie is the perfect mix of cuddly and playful. She thrives on closeness and loves to be part of whatever you’re doing. If you want a loyal shadow, Winnie’s your girl.

🐶 Potter – One of the famous abandoned puppy crew, Potter is now growing into a handsome young lad! His favourite things include snuffle mats, relaxing in the garden, and his trusty elephant toy.

🐶 Nina – A compact powerhouse, Nina may not be the tallest, but she’s full of playful charm. Calm and cuddly until the toys come out, then it’s game on! Soft toys are her absolute favourite.

Whether you’ve got a big garden, a big heart, or just love big personalities, we’ve got the dog for you. Come meet your new best friend and experience what Big Dog Energy really means!

VE Day Reflections from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre: Wartime Stories from the Archives

As the nation marks Victory in Europe (VE) Day, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been diving deep into its archives to reflect on the remarkable role the charity played during the Second World War.

Founded in 1887 as The Bristol Home for Lost & Starving Dogs, the organisation has seen the city through its most difficult times, including the Blitz. During WWII, the centre temporarily cared for the pets of Bristolians who had lost their homes to bombings or who were struggling to cope amid wartime hardship.

One touching story shared at the time by the Lord Mayor involved a young boy who had been severely injured during an air raid, losing his arm. His greatest heartbreak, however, was the loss of his beloved dog. Days later, the dog was found and brought to his hospital bedside. Their reunion was described as “pathetic” in the most moving sense, and marked the beginning of the boy’s emotional recovery.

Despite suffering some air raid damage of its own, the centre continued its vital work throughout the war. Volunteers remained steadfast in their duties, providing care and comfort not only to animals, but indirectly, to their owners in times of distress.

The team also uncovered original boarding records from the era, revealing the weekly cost of care:

To close the commemorations, the charity shared a poignant poem from its archives titled “Angel Dog,” capturing the deep bond between people and their dogs, bonds that endured even in the darkest times. The poem speaks of a dog waiting patiently at heaven’s gate for his master, a reminder of the emotional lifelines animals represent.

“The little dog angel’s eager bark / Will comfort his soul in the shivering dark.”

Chief Executive Mike Coe said “Our history is full of powerful stories like these. As we remember VE Day, we also honour the quiet acts of care, compassion, and resilience that helped carry Bristol through the war. And just like then, we remain committed to supporting animals and the people who love them no matter the circumstances.”

At just under four years old, Dom was severely underweight, his ribs and bones clearly visible beneath his rough, patchy fur. His skin was sore and scabbed in places, a stark reflection of the hardship he had endured alone on the streets.

 

Since arriving at Bristol A.R.C., Dom has made incredible progress, gaining nearly 4kg in weight and a whole lot of confidence and joy. Thanks to dedicated care, nutritious food, and a warm bed, his fur is recovering, his scabs have healed, and his loving personality has truly begun to shine.

Dom is playful, excitable, and endlessly affectionate. He adores soft toys and carries them around like prized possessions, often proudly parading them past you for a quick show and tell. He’s also a social butterfly, loving every new person he meets, always ready to share his joy.

This charming boy walks beautifully on the lead and is calm around other dogs, but when it comes to home life, he’s happiest as the only pet, soaking up all the love and attention.

Though his start was rough, Dom’s future is looking bright and we’re thrilled to share that he’s already settled into his new home!

Dom’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of rescue dogs and the transformative power of love and care. We are so proud of him and beyond excited for this next chapter in his life.

From the streets to a soft toy–filled sofa, Dom truly deserves the world and thanks to his new family, he’s finally getting it.

 

🌟 Our 2024 Impact Report is here!

Discover the stories, stats, and moments that made a real difference last year. None of it would be possible without our amazing supporters 💛

Take a look at the full report here!

Pedro Psspsspscal: A Real Gladiator in the Fight for His Forever Home

Pedro Psspsspsscal, a beloved and charming cat, has captured the hearts of staff and visitors alike during his stay at the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.). Known for his remarkable resilience and affectionate nature, Pedro’s journey took an unexpected turn when he was discovered with a glue trap stuck to his back legs.

Glue traps, which are still used in the UK as a method of pest control, consist of a flat surface coated with strong adhesive. While intended to catch rodents and insects, these traps often cause unnecessary suffering to animals. Once caught, the trapped creatures can endure prolonged distress. Despite growing concerns over their use, glue traps remain legal in many areas, leading to calls from animal welfare organisations and the public for stricter regulations or a complete ban.

Pedro’s ordeal with the trap has not dampened his spirit. Thanks to the swift and expert care of the Bristol A.R.C. veterinary team, Pedro’s injuries have been treated, though his fur has seen better days.

Despite his rough start, Pedro has remained a loving and affectionate companion throughout his recovery, showing strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

“Pedro is a true Gladiator,” said Casey Brown, from Bristol A.R.C. “His kind, friendly nature shines through, and he continues to be a joy to be around. He would thrive in a quiet, loving home where he can finally experience the peace and happiness he deserves.”

Pedro is now looking for a forever home where he can continue to flourish. He would be the perfect companion for a family or individual seeking a sweet and loyal friend.

Pedro has now been adopted by a loving new owner; but if you are interested in adopting a cat in need visit here.

Willow, a one-year-old French Bulldog, faced serious health challenges, including cherry eye and breed-related breathing issues. Without the support of a foster home, her recovery could have been a long and stressful ordeal in a kennel. Instead, thanks to her dedicated foster carers, she had the safe, quiet space she needed to heal properly. Here are some photos throughout her healing process:

 

During her recovery, Willow transformed. She went from a timid, anxious dog to a confident, loving companion. Her foster carers provided her with one-on-one care, and Willow quickly became a cuddle-loving snuggle bug, enjoying quiet time on the sofa. She also loves walks, meeting other dogs, and chewing on her favourite Nyla bones.

Now fully recovered, Willow’s been matched with her perfect forever home.

Willow’s foster journey proves how important it is for animals to have a safe, loving environment during recovery. Foster care made all the difference in her healing and helped her become the sweet, joyful dog she is today. Willow is now looking for a family to call her own, one where she can continue her journey of love and happiness.

 

Sprite’s Second Chance: From Fearful Rescue to Beloved Farm Companion

Sprite and Casper came to us through the RSPCA after being unwanted. While Casper quickly gained confidence, Sprite was much more fearful and struggled to trust people. As she started falling behind in her rehabilitation, we decided to separate them since their bond wasn’t strong enough to keep them together.

Casper, always the mischievous one, even played a trick on Sprite—unlocking the cat flap while we were cleaning. Sprite bolted, still terrified of people, and hid in our storage cupboard. Though we managed to get her back inside, the experience left her in shock, and any trust we had built was lost.

Rebuilding that trust was a slow and patient process. At first, she would hiss, hide, and keep her distance. We spent time sitting with her, reading softly, and letting her get used to us at her own pace. Treats (especially dried chicken!) helped her associate people with something positive, and over time, she even took them from our hands. She also began watching us as we cleaned and, eventually, started playing—showing us glimpses of her fun, curious side.

Despite her progress, she still wasn’t comfortable with physical contact, and we knew she needed a home where she could continue her journey on her own terms. After 106 days in our care, Sprite found the perfect place as a farm cat—where she could live independently while slowly learning to trust people. Her new owners have since sent a lovely update!

Why did you apply for Sprite? How did you feel after meeting her?

‘We applied for Sprite because we were looking for a new cat for our family farm after all our old ones had sadly passed away. We wanted a cat to both be part of our family but to also get to work catching rats. When I first saw her I instantly loved her, she was so beautiful and looked so vulnerable all by herself – I could see she needed to go somewhere once and for all and move to a new place she could learn would become her home for life.’

Are there specific things that have helped her feel more comfortable in her new home? 

‘Knowing Sprite is an outdoor cat, we have made sure whilst we rehabilitate her indoors she has a great view of the garden with all the moving feathered objects and squirrels too – she loves her food and also loves to play so she is spoiled with regards those – she now has free run of the house and loves it and we will let her out now the weather is better and she now knows where home is’

Is there anything else you’d like to share or any advice you need for continuing her rehabilitation? 

‘When we rescued Sprite we knew she wasn’t domesticated and we knew she wouldn’t ever be a lap cat, but we are used to that because we have rescued many strays and feral cats in the past. We are actually amazed how well she is doing and she really has become a member of the family and loves being near us, albeit we still aren’t allowed to stroke her yet, but I do believe in time, we will get there – she trusts us more each and every day. Sprite is the perfect little farm cat, it turns out we were looking for each other, both able to help each other in some way. Us with love and food and her with an outdoor rodent catching lifestyle! She really will be a companion for life’

Sprite when she first came in

Sprite now

In a harrowing reality faced by many struggling families, devoted pet owners are skipping their own meals to ensure their furry companions don’t go hungry. With the cost-of-living crisis pushing many into financial despair, pet lovers are making the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to feed their animals over themselves.

Recognising this gut-wrenching dilemma, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) and The Matthew Tree Project (TMTP) have joined forces to prevent families from having to make such impossible decisions. This powerful partnership will provide essential aid to those in crisis, ensuring both people and pets receive the care they desperately need.

TMTP’s Rebuilding Lives programme, based at its Community Support Hub in Filwood, one of the UK’s most deprived areas, offers vital food aid, skills training, and holistic support to struggling individuals and families. However, financial hardship often means pet care becomes an unbearable burden, forcing many to ration their own food to keep their beloved animals from starving.

To launch this urgent initiative, Bristol A.R.C. have made a first donation; enough pet food to provide 343 daily meals for pets. This will temporarily alleviate owners who no longer have to choose between their own well-being and that of their loyal companions. This lifeline will alleviate the crushing financial pressures on those who refuse to abandon their pets, even in the direst of circumstances.

Tina Hammond, Support Centre Assistant at TMTP, shared the emotional impact of the donations: “Our clients can’t thank you enough. They are overwhelmed with relief, knowing they can now feed their pets without sacrificing their own meals.”

Amber Baylis, Community Pet Support Coordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said ‘As more people are affected by the cost of living crisis, this collaboration between Bristol A.R.C. and TMTP stands as a fantastic partnership to continue our commitments for the people and pets of Bristol.’

The puppies named Harry, Potter, Ron, Fred, and George after beloved Harry Potter characters were rescued in two separate incidents.

Puppy Potter was the first to be found on Sunday after being offered as a ‘free puppy’ at a local pub. A few days later, the remaining four were discovered tied together with rope on the Lawrence Hill cycle path. A kind passerby brought them to the rescue centre for urgent care, where staff quickly determined that all five were likely from the same litter.

Believed to be around five months old, the puppies are now safe, but their arrival highlights the growing issue of pet abandonment in Bristol. All puppies came in underweight and in poor condition. Ron, a little ginger pup, will need surgery for a cherry eye condition.

“It’s heartbreaking to see these puppies start life this way,” said Ray Serjeant, Canine Intake Supervisor at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. “Taking in five energetic puppies at once puts immense pressure on our team and resources.”

The puppies arrived as soon as the centre opened on Friday morning, leaving staff worried about how long they had been left outside in the cold.

To give the puppies the best chance at a bright future, the rescue centre is urgently seeking foster homes and support with their road to rehoming.

“Getting them out of kennels and into loving foster homes will help them build confidence and prepare for their forever families,” said Kayleigh Jefferies, Foster Coordinator. “We are particularly looking for experienced foster carers who are comfortable with all that puppies bring to a household.”

If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer, visit Foster an animal | Bristol Animal Rescue Centre

 

 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is making an urgent appeal to find loving homes for a number of long-stay animals, some of whom have been in their care for over 200 days. Each of these animals has their own unique story and personality, and all of them are ready to find their perfect forever home.

Billy – This special boy has been at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre for over 180 days, much of which was spent recovering from ear surgery that left him with adorable, super-floppy ears! Billy is deaf, but that doesn’t stop him from being an incredibly social and affectionate dog. He loves spending time with humans and has enjoyed gentle outings to cafés and parks with his foster carer. He’s also great with other dogs and absolutely loves sniffing his way through woodland walks.

Rupert – A clever and affectionate cream lurcher, Rupert has now reached over 100 days with us. He was found as a stray and has been working hard on his socialisation, including getting comfortable with wearing a muzzle. Rupert is very friendly and is simply looking for a cosy couch to cuddle up on. He loves food—any food—and will be your best friend if you have treats to share!

The Trio of Guinea Pigs – Hedgehog, Boar and Badger are three lively piggies full of personality and love to greet visitors with excitement! They were brought to Bristol A.R.C after their previous owner could no longer care for them. They’re very food-motivated and will happily take treats from your hand. This friendly trio can live together or be housed with neutered female guinea pigs. They’ll need a large, well-insulated run—indoors or outdoors—to give them plenty of space to explore.

Dottie – Though she hasn’t quite hit the 100-day mark, Dottie is the longest-stay cat by far. This sweet 10-year-old lady came to the rescue after her owner sadly became too ill to care for her. She clearly misses her home comforts, so she’s been living with a foster carer, where she’s settled in beautifully as a house cat.

Trevor & Aida – This adorable pair of ferrets have been without a forever home for nearly a year! These two are inseparable and totally in love. Ferrets are playful and full of fun—like puppies, they sleep for up to 18 hours a day but make the most of their awake time with energetic play sessions. They’d love to find a home together where they can continue their adventures as a duo.

Meela – One of our longest-stay residents at over 200 days, Meela is an exceptionally intelligent lurcher-type dog. She was found as a stray and has so much potential for a home willing to take on an active and highly trainable companion. Meela would excel in dog sports, agility, scent work, or advanced obedience training. She’s eager to learn and thrives on mental stimulation. She’s looking for adopters who can continue her socialisation with other dogs and help her reach her full potential.

If you are interested in adopting any of these animals, please contact Bristol Animal Rescue Centre who would be happy to tell you more about these wonderful pets!

This Valentine’s Day, love may be in the air—but for those nursing a broken heart, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has the perfect way to turn heartbreak into something meaningful. They have launched “Snip Happens”; a campaign where the public can donate to have a dog or cat neutered in honour (or dishonour) of a less-than-faithful former flame.

With every donation, participants can choose to receive an official “Certificate of Neutering in Dishonour of [Your Name]’s Ex”, commemorating their contribution to a world with fewer unwanted litters in a way fit for a legendary act of catharsis.

“This is the ultimate way to get closure while doing something good,” said Holly Mansfield, Marketing and Communications Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre “February also celebrates Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, encouraging pet owners to responsibly reduce overpopulation where appropriate –  revenge never felt so good.”

The “Snip Happens” campaign not only offers a cathartic way to deal with past relationships but also helps prevent unwanted litters and improve animal welfare. 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre neuters around 600 animals a year. When appropriate, neutering cats and dogs is one of the most effective ways to prevent unwanted litters, reduce the number of animals in shelters, and improve overall pet health. 

For those who want to make a statement, custom certificates can be shared on social media, helping spread the word about responsible pet ownership—while getting a few laughs in the process.

To donate and dedicate a neutering in honour of your ex, visit https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/snip-happens/

One year ago, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) launched its foster scheme—and in just 12 months, the difference it has made is truly heart warming. Thanks to our amazing team of 58 dedicated foster volunteers, dozens of animals have found love, comfort, and safety while waiting for their forever homes.

How Fostering Changes Lives

Every time an animal goes into a foster home, it frees up space in the shelter for another animal in need. In the past year:

With an average foster stay of 30 days, these temporary homes provide a crucial bridge for animals who might need a little extra time to recover from illness, injury, or simply adjust to a new environment before adoption.

Support from Bristol A.R.C.

We understand that taking in a foster pet is a big commitment, which is why Bristol A.R.C. provides everything needed — food, bedding, toys, and vet care. Our foster carers only need to provide love, patience, and a safe space.

Why Fostering Matters

The foster scheme doesn’t just change the lives of the animals—it also brings joy to the wonderful people who open their homes to them. Whether it’s a playful kitten, a nervous dog learning to trust again, or a small pet in need of TLC, every fostered animal has a second chance thanks to our volunteers.

“Our foster volunteers are truly amazing. Every animal they take in gets the love, care, and stability they need to thrive. Thanks to them, we’ve been able to help even more animals in need, and we couldn’t do it without their kindness and dedication.” – Kayleigh Jefferies, Fostering Coordinator, Bristol A.R.C.

Kayleigh Jefferies, Fostering Coordinator, Bristol A.R.C.

As we celebrate the first year of our foster scheme, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone involved. Your kindness and compassion have made a world of difference—not just to the animals, but to the people who will one day adopt them.

Would you like to be part of this life-changing work? Join our foster team and help make a difference! 🐾❤️

Fostering requirements here!

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is excited to announce a significant update to its adoption guidelines, aimed at making the process more accessible for potential adopters while continuing to prioritize the well-being of the animals in their care.

“At Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, our mission is to give every pet a chance to find a loving home,” said Lee Coombs, Animal Home Assistant Manager. “By making our adoption criteria more flexible, we hope to create opportunities for more families and individuals to welcome a rescue animal into their lives.”

Highlights of the Updated Adoption Guidelines:

These changes are designed to help more people explore adoption while ensuring that each animal’s individual needs are met. Detailed requirements for specific pets will continue to be listed on their profile pages, providing clear guidance for potential adopters.

“We are thrilled to make these changes and to see how they will help more animals find their forever homes,” said Lee. “Our goal is to match every dog with the right family, and these updates allow us to do so while supporting a wider range of adopters. We know that everyone’s family setup is as unique as our animals here; so if people really connect with a pet it’s worth giving us a call to discuss.”.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre invites anyone considering adoption to visit https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/ to explore the updated guidelines and view the pets currently available for adoption.

 

From her tough beginnings as a stray in Bristol to her transformation into a confident and loving dog, it was clear how much care, patience, and dedication went into her rehabilitation. Spending eight months in our Animal Home  wasn’t just about waiting—it was about helping Babe overcome her fears and learn to enjoy life, step by step.

The team’s work with her—introducing her to a harness, taking baby steps in the sensory garden, and helping her feel comfortable around people—truly paid off. Her perfect adopters, with their experience and kind hearts, were a dream match for her. And their resident dog, Baloo is the gentlest big brother, it was wonderful to see her in such a supportive environment.

“Babe has been one of the most rewarding dogs I’ve worked with. Watching her grow from a trembling, anxious girl into a confident and playful dog has been incredible. She was a lot of work but reminded us all of what a talented team of animal care assistants we have here. Seeing her now, happy in her forever home, makes every moment worth it.” — Georgia Hawkins, Assistant Behaviour Assistant

And for anyone who wants to follow along: Babe and Baloo’s adventures are all shared on instagram! https://www.instagram.com/baloobearstaffy/

Alarming new data from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) reveals that 59% of
dogs and cats entering the rescue’s care are in breach of microchipping laws, either
due to not being chipped, unregistered chips, or outdated owner details. While microchipping
has been proven to reunite countless pets with their families, too many owners are failing to
comply with this crucial legal requirement for dogs and cats.

For example, 76% of dogs entering care were microchipped, but 61% of these had
outdated or unregistered information, making it impossible to contact their owners.
Shockingly, 22% of all dogs had no microchip at all. These figures highlight the urgent
need for pet owners to check their pets are chipped and their details are correct.
One cat’s story showcases the lifesaving power of a microchip. August, a much-loved pet,
went missing in July 2024 after disappearing from the windowsill of his owner’s flat. Despite
months of searching, his owners had no luck finding him; so they updated his microchip as
missing.

Meanwhile, workers at a nearby building noticed signs of a nervous cat hiding in their attic.
They left food and water, which disappeared overnight, but rarely saw the cat. Finally, one
morning, they managed to catch him in a box and brought him to Bristol Animal Rescue
Centre.

Within three seconds, a microchip scan and look up revealed August’s owners, who had
recently moved house and feared they’d left August behind forever. But the day they
collected the keys to their new home happened to also be the day they received a call to
reunite with their beloved pet after 7 months of being apart.

‘Reuniting pets with their loving owners has to be one of the best parts of the job!’ said
Casey Brown, Reception and Administration Co-ordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.
‘August’s story is a great example of how microchipping is more than a legal requirement for
pets—it’s a lifesaving tool too!’

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre have been encouraging the community to ensure their pets
have the same safety net. If you are unsure whether your pet is chipped or your details are
correct, contact your local vet.

Thanks to the Pets at Home Charity Lifelines scheme, Dotty and Sprout have received the food and support they need to thrive at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Dotty, who arrived a few years ago, gave birth to her daughter Sprout here. Despite being almost fully blind, Sprout leads a happy, typical bunny life—playing, exploring, and binkying with Dotty by her side.

The Lifelines scheme has provided us with essential food and treats to keep them healthy and happy. The strong bond between Dotty and Sprout means they rely on each other for comfort and companionship and they just love to snuggle and dig into a treat together!

Thanks to your support, they continue to enjoy life to the fullest—whether in their safe indoor space or outside for playtime in a secure garden. We’re so grateful for everyone’s efforts in making this possible and keeping these bunnies happy and full!

Christmas may bring joy, but Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s mission to rehome animals doesn’t take a break. Pets still need care, warmth, and love, making community support vital. The team work hard over the Christmas period reviewing applications ensuring all pets are going to the best fitting forever home, organising meets and of course caring for those that anticipate spending Christmas in their care.

Some of those that are likely to be spending Christmas at the city centre based rescue include Meela, Igor, Dennis and Sandy.

Meela, a 3 year old lurcher is a ball of energy and would work well in a home that wanted to try dog sports, agility, scent work, higher level obedience etc. As she is really switched on, clever and loves to work! She has been at Bristol A.R.C. since August so it’s about time this loving girl got the family she’s been waiting for!

Igor is a handsome, 5 year old german shepherd looking for a rural or semi rural home. He was found in Dundry almost 3 months ago and has spent his time at Bristol A.R.C. enjoying treats and throwing toys around! He could be placed with another similar sized dog.

Dennis, a 3 year old mastiff that’s been at Bristol A.R.C. since June. He hasn’t just been waiting though, the team have been working very hard on training and building calm confidence. He’s a strong boy weighing in at 43 kg so would do best with someone with experience of large dogs. A real gentle giant; he’s looking for a comfy sofa to chill on.

Sandy has been at Bristol A.R.C. for 5 months.  While in their care, Sandy has undergone face & soft palate surgery to help with breathing issues that Frenchies can commonly struggle with. She is now fully recovered and enjoying a new lease of life while she waits for her forever home. Sandy is looking for a comfy sofa to relax and cuddle.

‘Whilst we certainly don’t encourage welcoming a new animal into your home at Christmas time, we still actively seek applications for animals in our care, as we would any other time of the year.’ Said Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol A.R.C.. ‘All applications get reviewed by our experts to find the perfect matches for our pets, it’s a very considered process that happens all year round!’

If you’re looking to fill a dog shaped hole in your life check out the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre website and complete the application form.

 

 

Chance, a courageous Labrador-cross, is seeking his forever home after enduring a heartbreaking start to life. When Chance arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.) 92 days ago, he was in an appalling, malnourished state, weighing only 9.5kg — nearly half the healthy weight for his size. Now, thanks to the care and dedication of the team at Bristol A.R.C., Chance is thriving and ready to bring joy to a new family.

Chance was brought to us by RSPCA Inspectors after a concern for his welfare was raised. The inspectors found him severely underweight and suffering as a result. His prolonged starvation left him with a strong tendency to scavenge. Despite his challenging past, Chance’s zest for life and love for people has shone through during his recovery.

“Chance is an incredibly loving dog,” said Jodie, Animal Home Manager for Bristol A.R.C. “Even after everything he’s been through, his tail never stops wagging, and he’s always eager to please. He adores his toys and loves proudly showing them off to everyone he meets.”

Chance’s friendly nature makes him an excellent candidate for first-time dog owners but he will need very patient owners who would be happy to work with him to help him learn what is and isn’t food. He has shown no signs of separation anxiety and is a confident boy. With his resilience and affectionate personality, Chance promises to be a loyal and loving companion.

Now on a journey to a healthy weight and full of energy, Chance is ready to leave behind his difficult past and start a new chapter with a family that will give him the love and care he deserves.

Chance dog after - healthy

‘It can be both emotionally and financially expensive for us to care for a dog like this, covering veterinary costs and daily living expenses for such a significant period of time; costs start to stack up.’ said Head of fundraising Rosie El-Tibi. “Everyday we welcome on average 2 animals to Bristol A.R.C. so we are very grateful for any donations and support we receive from the public to fund this essential work”.

If you are interested in giving Chance the home he has been waiting for; or wish to make a donation towards healing, helping and rehoming animals, please take a look through the Bristol A.R.C. website at https://www.bristolarc.org.uk/.

With love and care Nala found her forever home.

Two-year-old Nala arrived at Bristol ARC in June 2024, overwhelmed and very anxious by her new environment. She exhibited fear-based behaviors, hiding and reacting defensively with hissing, lunging, and swiping. Her extreme distress highlighted the need for a slow, patient rehabilitation process.

Over weeks of gentle care, Nala began to relax, learning to trust her carers. She eventually blossomed into a playful and affectionate cat, though she retained her signature “tortie sass” and a preference for female carers.

Her adopters had the key ingredient: patience. By visiting Nala multiple times, they built trust and helped her recognize them, easing her transition. A collaborative rehoming plan ensured a smooth move to her forever home.

Animal Supervisor Fabienne Greig said: “Nala’s transformation shows the incredible power of patience and compassion. Seeing her thrive has been a joy and I am so grateful for the teams compassion and commitment to helping Nala recover over her 5 months with us.”

We’re thrilled to share the incredible success of our 2024 Vaccine Drive, which took place on November 12th at Ambition Lawrence Weston.

The turnout exceeded all our expectations, with pet owners from across the city coming together to ensure their beloved companions received the essential care they need. It was heartwarming to see so many families benefit from this initiative, which reflects our commitment to making pet care accessible for everyone, regardless of financial challenges.

“This year’s vaccine drive was really successful,” said Dr. Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol A.R.C. “We reached more pets than we ever have before, and that means more animals staying healthy. It’s exactly why we do what we do.”

A Step Forward in Preventive Animal Welfare

Our vaccine drive isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners. By providing critical vaccines and health checks, we’re helping prevent illness, reducing the strain on pet owners, and working toward our goal of keeping pets happy and safe in their homes.

The Power of Community Support

The record turnout wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and the Bristol Paws Project team. Together, we created a welcoming, supportive environment that allowed us to make a real difference in the lives of hundreds of animals.

We’re also grateful for the support of the Bristol community, through their donations and generosity help make events like this possible.

While we’re celebrating this milestone, we know the need for affordable pet care continues to grow. That’s why we’re already planning ways to expand our outreach services to even more locations across Bristol. Initiatives like this vaccine drive are just the beginning, and with your ongoing support, we can continue to reach new heights.

To learn more about our outreach programmes or to support our mission, visit our website or follow us on social media.

 

What is ear cropping and why is it popular?

It’s an unnecessary and painful procedure, which involves shaping or removing the ear flap, often done by irresponsible breeders to sell dogs at higher prices.

Breeders profit immensely, sometimes making tens of thousands of pounds from each litter.

The Myth vs. Reality

Some claim that ear cropping prevents infections and injuries, but this is entirely untrue. Cropping offers no health benefits and can actually harm a dog’s well-being. The real reason for ear cropping? Aesthetic appeal. Owners believe it makes their dogs look tougher, but it often leads to increased anxiety and nervousness that stays with the dog for life. Ear cropping can also harm a dog’s ability to communicate, leading to impaired social skills.

The Painful Truth

Ear cropping is typically done on puppies between six and twelve weeks old. The surgery involves removing part or all of the ear flap, causing extreme trauma and potential lifelong damage. Without proper anaesthesia or pain relief, the procedure is excruciating. Reports of ear cropping have skyrocketed by 621% over the past six years.*

*Figures from RSPCA website

Tiggy’s Story

Tiggy is a Presa Canario and was brought to us as a stray at 3 years old. At 40kg, her appearance can be intimidating, but don’t let her looks deceive you. This beauty doesn’t let her appearance define her and she is placid, playful, and loving. She loves cuddles, defying the aggressive stereotype her cropped ears suggest. The best way to describe Tiggy is that she is the definition of a ‘gentle giant’ with a quirky personality. Despite her size, she even considers herself to be a lap dog!

The current law means that we are still able to thankfully rehome dogs with cropped ears but Tiggy was with us for over a year before she found her home, with many potential adopters possibly deterred by her appearance. Tiggy’s story challenges the misconception that dogs with cropped ears are dangerous and reminds us never to judge a book by its cover.

It is illegal to perform ear cropping in the UK, however, it is not illegal to sell, own or import ear-cropped dogs, and it’s not a specific offence to send dogs abroad to be cropped. The RSPCA wants to change legislation around imports to help dogs like Tiggy. Find out more and report suspected illegal ear cropping to the RSPCA by visiting their website.

 

When COVID hit and travel was restricted, Lesley didn’t let it stop her from taking on the challenge of the famous City to Surf run in Sydney. Instead, she created her own version right here in Bristol, mapping out a route and asking friends and family to sponsor her in support of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.). Inspired by the dedication of our staff working through difficult times, Lesley ran her Bristol City to Surf for two consecutive years, raising crucial funds for our charity.

Then, with a return to Australia on the horizon, Lesley signed up for the real City to Surf with some trepidation. Having not run long distances for some time, she knew it would be a challenge. But she was determined. She trained when she could and swapped birthday gifts for sponsorships to raise even more for Bristol A.R.C.

The City to Surf is no ordinary run. Spanning 14km from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach, the event draws around 90,000 participants, many in wild costumes, cheered on by crowds lining the streets with music blasting at every turn. Lesley started slowly, feeling the pressure to run the whole way. She tackled the infamous Heartbreak Hill and, despite the rising heat, kept going. As the coast came into view, a cooling breeze lifted her spirits for the final push.

Crossing the finish line, Lesley was exhausted but elated. “I was as red as a lobster,” she laughed, but the sense of accomplishment and the buzzing atmosphere at Bondi Beach made every step worthwhile.

Lesley’s story shows us the power of perseverance and the impact of one person’s dedication. From running in Bristol to crossing the finish line at Bondi, she has raised vital funds and awareness for BARC. Inspired by Lesley? Why not take on your own challenge for Bristol A.R.C.? Every effort helps make a difference!

Here’s our checklist for keeping animals safe in summer:
Watch out for burned pads

Walking your dogs in hot weather can put them at risk of burned pads, so try to walk them in the mornings and evenings when it’s cooler and do the five second test – if the pavement is too hot for your hands, it’s too hot for paws! The signs your dog might be struggling include:

Dogs get heatstroke too

Just as with humans, too much exposure to heat can affect dogs. Here are some signs to watch for if you suspect heatstroke:

If you suspect your dog has the signs of heatstroke, it’s essential to act quickly by moving them to a shaded and cool area and seek veterinary help.

Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre said: “During the hot weather you should think twice before taking your dog out with you as they can struggle out and about in the heat – it’s often best to leave them at home and then walk them in the cooler parts of the day. And please, please don’t leave them in the car, even for a few minutes, even if the windows are open – just don’t do it!”

“Keep an eye on pets who may be struggling during this time. It’s much harder for them to communicate how they’re feeling so pet owners will need to be more intuitive and try to offer them ways to keep cool where possible”.

Living in a bustling city has its perks, but for our furry friends like Hector, the opportunity to unleash their inner zoomies in a vast open space is a rarity. That’s where our dedicated animal care team come in, ensuring our dogs get the chance to bask in the simple pleasure of blowing off steam.

Whenever we can, we take some of our dogs, like Hector, to a nearby secure open space. As you can see in the video below, Hector is surrounded by new smells, free to roam in the fresh air and revel in the freedom of an open environment. As Hector has been in our care for almost 18 months, he will not have experienced these simple pleasures of being a dog as much as he deserves to.

The cost of booking this space is £11, and with the commitment of three staff members dedicating 30 minutes each way for travel, it’s a small effort that means the world to our four-legged companions.

Your donation can keep these heartwarming adventures alive for dogs like Hector. Help us continue to provide enriching activities and unforgettable moments for the animals in our care.

We understand that the Government’s ban on XL Bully type dogs is a very unsettling and worrying time for XL Bully type dog owners, adopters, rehoming centres and vets alike, and that many XL bully type pet owners have questions about what it may mean for them.

What is the government’s proposal?
On Tuesday 31 October, the Government announced that the XL Bully type dog has been added to the list of dogs banned in England and Wales, you can see more information on the government’s website here.

They have set out the following timeline and criteria for XL bully type dog’s owners to follow:

How can I tell if my dog will be classified as an XL Bully type?

The Government has developed an official definition of an XL Bully. It includes details on height, shape and other features, you can see the official definition here.

Information, advice and support for XL Bully dog owners

If you are an XL Bully dog owner, we highly recommend taking a look at the Dog Trust’s website, they have excellent information, advice and practical support to help XL Bully owners prepare for the upcoming ban; from muzzle training to third party insurance. Visit their support for XL Bully owners page on their website here.

Adopting an elderly pet can be a deeply rewarding experience for both the animal and adopter, we have lots of elderly animals coming to us after they have been abandoned, or if their owner can no longer cope/has fallen ill.

Whilst we appreciate that adopting an elderly pet may feel like setting yourself up for heartbreak, it’s important to also understand all the benefits of giving an older pet a home and the many joys it can bring to your life:

1. Saving a Life: Older pets often have a harder time getting adopted, by choosing to adopt an elderly pet, you are giving a deserving animal a second chance at a happy life.
2. Calmer Temperament: Senior pets typically have a calmer and more settled temperament. They are past the energetic and destructive puppy or kitten stage, which can make them a good fit for quiet, calm households.
3. Predictable Personality: With an older pet, their personality and temperament are usually already well-established, meaning it can be easier to integrate them into your life.
4. Lower Energy Levels: If you’re not as active as you used to be, an elderly pet might be a perfect match. They usually require less exercise and are content with a cosy spot to rest, and someone to keep them company.
5. Training and Housebroken: Many senior pets are already trained and housebroken, saving you the time and worry that goes into training a younger pet.
6. Unconditional Love: Older pets might come with health issues, but they still offer unconditional love. Despite their age, they provide love and companionship to any home. They are ready to love and are incredibly appreciative of the love you’re bringing into their life.
7. Sense of Fulfilment: Taking care of an elderly pet can provide a profound sense of fulfillment. Knowing that you’re providing comfort and love to an animal in their twilight years can be incredibly rewarding. Whilst we do all we can to provide exceptional care and love for each animal, they deserve to spend their remaining years in a loving forever home.
8. Support for Animal Rescue Centres: Older pets tend to take the longest to find a forever home, by choosing to adopt, you’re supporting charities like ours – it frees up vital space for other animals waiting to be saved.

When choosing to adopt an elderly pet there are always going to be potential challenges that must be considered, such as health issues that may require special care and attention. However, we hope this has shed some light on how choosing to adopt an elderly pet can enrich your life in so many different ways. Check out the animals waiting for their forever home here.

 

Fireworks play a key part in seasonal celebrations like Halloween, Bonfire Night, and Diwali, which are all just around the corner, so now’s the time to prepare if you have a pet that might be affected by it.

It is common for animals to find fireworks scary – it’s estimated that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. Cats and other small animals may be affected too, so pet owners need to be aware of their fears and plan to help handle the situation.

  1. Here are ten tips for pet owners to prepare for fireworks season.
    Start prepping your pet early – for dogs, we recommend Sounds Scary, an easy-to-follow therapy pack that includes a specially made set of high quality sound recordings and a guide for owners to help get them to become less afraid of loud noises.
  2. Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid being outside when fireworks are likely to be set off.
  3. Cats can become more stressed if they’re outside during fireworks, so ensure you get them inside before nightfall.
  4. Make sure they have a safe place to hide if they want to and ensure they have access to this place at all times.
  5. Make sure your pet can’t escape outside if there’s a sudden noise.
  6. Have your pet microchipped if they escape (by law all dogs should be microchipped).
  7. Ask your vet for advice about medications to help calm your pet.
  8. At nightfall, close the windows and curtains and put on music to muffle the sound of fireworks.
  9. Stay at home – being there to offer reassurance can help. With dogs, it can help to ignore the fireworks but instead, take out a favourite toy and play with it to see if they want to join you – but don’t force them.
  10. Don’t punish your pets when they are scared as this will just worsen it in the long run.

Want to know more? Watch our video for top tips.

The spooky season is upon us, but not everyone enjoys a scare. Here are some tips to keep your furry friends safe at Halloween.

Halloween can be a real scream for humans, but sadly pets don’t see things the same way that we do and it can be a genuinely terrifying experience for them if pet owners don’t prepare properly. To avoid having petrified pets at home, here are some things you can do make sure they are as comfortable as possible on the scariest night of the year.

  1. Chocolate and sweets can be dangerous for pets, so make sure you keep those Halloween treats well away from prying paws. Store them in a high-up cupboard or locked away where your pets can’t reach them. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning can include vomiting, diahorrea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures – seek veterinary attention immediately if your pet becomes unwell.
    Walk your dog before it gets dark to avoid crowds of trick-or-treaters out for the night – or if you have an outdoor cat, make sure they’re brought inside in good time.
  2. Make sure your pet has somewhere safe to hide in the house, and that they can get to it at any time.
  3. Your doorbell may ring more often than usual on Halloween night, so where possible try to stick to your pet’s usual routine and prepare things to keep your pet busy and happy. Try to keep them in a secure room away from the door to reduce stress and avoid them darting outside.
  4. If you want to avoid drama, it might be a good idea to put a sign on your front door to let trick-or-treaters know that you have a nervous pet. Instead of ringing the doorbell, you could perhaps leave some goodies in a bowl in the porch or on a window ledge for them.
  5. Close the windows and curtains in your house and put on music to muffle the sound of any loud noises outside.
  6. Glow sticks are often used as a child-safe alternative to candles to light pumpkins, but be aware that pets can chew them open. The liquid inside is usually non-toxic but it can cause excessive drooling or vomiting, so try to keep them away from your four-legged friends. Seek advice from a vet immediately if they become unwell.
  7. Don’t attempt to dress your pet in a costume. While not all costumes are dangerous, they can restrict movement, hearing or eyesight and cause distress to your pet.
  8. Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety, so avoid leaving your dog alone on Halloween night if you think it will affect them.

Make sure your pets are microchipped in case they escape (it’s a legal requirement for dogs to be microchipped).

Finally, remember that although it’s only once a year, Halloween can be a very scary time for pets, so make sure everyone in your family is aware and does as much as possible to reduce the impact on your pet.

The RSPCA has launched its annual Adoptober campaign, highlighting the benefits of adopting, rather than buying pets – but this year it’s more urgent than ever, as rescue centres across the country are ‘full to bursting’ with unwanted animals.

We’re seeing that play out here in Bristol, with a higher than usual number of animals coming to us in need of care and often medical support too due, in part to the current cost of living crisis.

The RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index found that 68% of pet owners are concerned about the increasing cost of pet care while 19% are worried about being able to afford to feed their pets.

It’s certainly been a challenging year for rescue centres, including ours, but we’re determined to continue to offer the highest levels of welfare for all the animals in our care and we’re working hard to find as many of them as possible the loving forever homes they deserve.

As we prepare for a challenging winter ahead, our teams are forecasting increased demand for our services, with straying animals likely to suffer more in adverse weather conditions. That’s why we need your support now more than ever.

While we are committed to making every animal’s time with us as happy, safe, and nurturing as can be, we would love to see more find their forever homes.

If you’re considering taking in a pet, check out at the animals in our care who are all looking for homes right now.

When you choose to adopt with us, you’re helping two animals – the one you take home and the one who takes their place at the rescue centre.

If you’re not in a position to adopt, please consider donating what you can to help the animals in our care.

Did you know that it’s been proven by many studies that owning a pet can actually improve your mental health?

In a 2021 study undertaken by Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, more than 70% of people who had suffered from mental health issues including depression and anxiety said that having a pet helped to alleviate their condition.

There are many ways our pets enrich our lives – they provide a source of comfort, friendship, and motivation, but just how much could owning a pet improve our mental health?

Some of the benefits of caring for a pet include:

• Increasing exercise: Taking your pet for their daily activity, whether that’s a stroll, run, hike, or playing in the garden are all fun and rewarding ways to implement daily exercise into your routine. When you’re feeling low, these activities might otherwise seem like a chore that you struggle to muster up motivation for, but when you have a pet, it becomes a fun part of your daily routine and something they – and you – begin to look forward to.

• Providing companionship: Companionship can help prevent illness and loneliness. Having a bond with a pet, where you feel safe and comforted can also help to reduce anxiety – and of course, nothing beats loneliness like coming home to a wagging tail or purring cat!

• Helping you meet new people: Pets can be a great conversation starter for their owners, helping you start and maintain new friendships. When you find someone with a mutual love for animals, there can be an instant bond.

• Creating a routine: All pets require a regular feeding and exercise schedule to allow them to live their happiest and healthiest life. As they rely on you to provide this, it helps add structure and routine to everyday life. No matter your mood -depressed, anxious, or stressed – one look from your pet and you’ll have to get out of bed to feed, exercise, and care for them.

• Providing sensory stress relief: Touch and movement are two healthy ways to quickly manage stress. Stroking a dog, cat, or other animal can lower blood pressure and help you quickly feel calmer and less stressed.

If you’re interested in introducing an animal into your life, check out the animals currently waiting for their forever homes here.

If you’re unable to adopt but want to spend time with animals, take a look at our events, or get your colleagues involved in one of our corporate volunteering days.

 

There’s been a rise in the number of animals coming to us with behavioural difficulties – an additional challenge for our team at a time when our services are more in demand than ever.

As the number of rescued dogs continues to rise, animal rescue centres have noticed a concerning trend – an increasing number of dogs arriving with behavioural challenges that require extended rehabilitation. These challenges include a lack of socialisation to everyday experiences like vet visits or walks, as well as reactivity towards other dogs or unfamiliar people.

Limited socialisation during the puppy stage of a dog’s life is one of the many factors contributing to these behavioural challenges. When puppies don’t have the opportunity to positively interact with other dogs or experience different environments, they may struggle with fear, anxiety, and reactivity when faced with new situations. They can easily feel overwhelmed and not know how to cope with those emotions, leading to behaviours that many people find difficult to manage.

Another common challenge is reactivity towards other dogs, which can make interactions difficult and even pose safety risks. Reactive behaviour can stem from fear, insecurity, or a lack of socialisation. You might come across dogs that exhibit aggressive behaviours, excessive barking, or attempts to run away when they encounter unfamiliar dogs. These dogs need specialised rehabilitation and behaviour modification programmes to help them overcome their reactivity and develop positive social skills.

To effectively address these challenges, animal rescue centres like ours are having to extend rehabilitation periods. It’s understandable to want to find these dogs forever homes quickly, but it’s essential to give them the support and training they’ll need in the long run. Longer rehabilitation allows for focused socialisation, gradual exposure to various experiences, and tailored behaviour modification techniques. This comprehensive approach increases their chances of successful integration into loving homes.

Dedicated trainers and volunteers play a crucial role in rehabilitating dogs with behavioural challenges, which is why it is so great that we have a behaviour team here at Bristol A.R.C. With our expertise and patience, we are able to create personalised rehabilitation plans that meet each dog’s specific needs. By using positive reinforcement techniques and desensitisation exercises, we can create a supportive environment that builds trust, boosts confidence, and improves behaviour.

As animal rescue centres everywhere face a growing influx of dogs with behavioural challenges, it’s vital to acknowledge the longer rehabilitation periods that many dogs need before being available for rehoming, and the cost that this has both within our charity and our community. It is only through the support of the team’s dedication that these dogs have the opportunity to thrive and become cherished members of their new families.

Check out how you can support our life saving work today. 

Last week we held our first Kennel Break event and it was a paw-sitive success! Business leaders from five local businesses including Calibro Consultants, Setfords Solicitors, Flex Digital agency and Bristol’s Department for Work and Pensions ‘ruffed’ it for the day in a kennel block at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, raising over £3000! Locked in with just their laptops and phones for company, they competed against each other, and their teams back at the office, to raise donations to buy their freedom.

The challenge came about as we, along with many charities, continue to struggle with the cost of living crisis. Animal intake is up 8.4% nationally, as increasing numbers of pet owners face financial difficulties and more pets are being signed over to rescue centres.

This year has been one of the toughest in our 136-year history. We are still working through the aftermath of the covid crisis, and all the struggles that came with that, and now we have the Cost of Living crisis to cope with too. Animal abandonments are up 24% nationally and we are seeing that play out at Bristol A.R.C. too, with some truly heart-breaking cases. We’re seeing a rise in demand for our services as people struggle with their bills, with many of the animals coming to us needing more tailored support for longer, and our costs are all increasing too, all at a time when people have less to give.

We rely on the generous support of our local community to fund our vital work, and it’s a real challenge right now. We’re here for people, for pets and for Bristol, so we’re extremely grateful that Bristol’s business community got behind our first Kennel Break and supported us. We were so glad to see participants had a great time doing it too – especially their colleagues who jumped at the chance to keep their bosses locked in for as long as possible.

“We were delighted to be participate in Kennel Break” said Stuart Choak, Managing Director of Calibro Consultants. “Whilst I wasn’t so thrilled at being locked up for the day, I am wholly in support of this fantastic cause, which does so much to help pets here in Bristol!”

Sarah Howe, Consultant Solicitor, FCILEx and Licensed Conveyancer at legal firm Setfords said: “I enjoyed taking part in Kennel Break, with animal welfare being very important to me and having two fur babies of my own, I couldn’t think of a better cause to support.’

All donations raised from Kennel Break 2023 will go towards continuing Bristol A.R.C.’s life-saving work today, tomorrow and into the future. If you are a business who’d like to take part in the next Kennel Break – get in touch with the team today – fundraising@bristolarc.org.uk

 

In light of Rabbit Awareness Week, it’s important to be aware of the responsibility that comes with caring for a rabbit and why neutering your pet is the best way to set them up for happy and healthy life. Recent research shows that there are currently 67,000 rabbits in rescue centres in the UK waiting to be adopted, much of this figure being down to accidental pregnancies with unneutered rabbits. Choosing not to neuter your rabbit causes overpopulation, meaning so many litters struggle to find a loving home.

What is neutering?

Neutering a male rabbit means removing its testes, while the equivalent procedure in a female is called spaying – the removal of the reproductive organs.

Key benefits to neutering

There are several benefits to neutering your rabbits, both from a behavioural and a health point of view.

When to neuter

If you need any further information or advice please visit our website, or check out the resources from RAAG. There is lots of support out there to ensure you are giving your rabbit the happiest and healthiest life.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is just one of many centres across the country being overwhelmed with unwanted rabbits – with fewer people coming forward to offer them new homes.

The RSPCA has reported a national rabbit breeding crisis, with rescue centres across the country being inundated with rabbits. Last year, RSPCA branches nationally dealt with 1,942 unwanted rabbits.

We’re seeing that play out here in Bristol – last year we saw a 33% increase in rabbits being brought to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre compared to 2021, and double what we took in 2020. It’s too early to tell what the figures will be like for this year, but it looks like we are on course to surpass that even further.

There are currently 19 rabbits in our care (usually for this time of year we’d house 5 – 8 rabbits) and more arriving every week. Many of them have come into our care after being abandoned in groups.

They have been found in bags, boxes and cages in places where they can only have been dumped and left in danger. Within the groups, many of them are arriving pregnant or with young babies. The youngest we are currently caring for is just five weeks old.

A single female rabbit can produce up to 30 babies in breeding season (which is usually February until late summer) and they can be mated and become pregnant again within hours of giving birth.

“It’s hard to pinpoint one particular reason for the sudden influx. One element could be the cost of living crisis – rabbits are not a cheap pet to keep and they require more care than most people initially realise,” said Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“Some owners may not be able to afford neutering, or perhaps have adopted a male and a female without realising and then finding that they end up with babies they cannot care for. Our advice to anyone adopting pairs of rabbits is to take them to the vet as soon as possible to check their genders and have them neutered,” she added.

Adopt a rabbit

See which bunnies are currently looking for new homes

See rabbits

Frequently asked rabbit questions

“Rabbits are highly inquisitive and intelligent animals and they make fantastic pets. Many people don’t realise what’s involved in caring for them, however,” said Fabienne Gould, Animal Care Supervisor and resident rabbit expert at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions people ask us about rabbits.

How long do rabbits live?

Rabbits can live for eight to 12 years, meaning they’re quite a big responsibility for anyone wishing to take them on.

Are they suited to living with children?

They are sensitive animals and are best suited to quiet homes. Due to the time and care required for these animals, they do not make good starter pets for children. An adult should always be the primary carer and supervise children when interacting with them.

Where should rabbits live?

Rabbits are naturally sociable and prefer to live in pairs or compatible groups. They are also active animals, so they need space to run, jump, forage and dig. It’s really important to make sure you have housing that meets your rabbits’ complex environmental and behavioural needs.

The minimum size of living area you’ll need for a pair of rabbits will be at least three metres x two metres x one metre, but the bigger the better! The accommodation should include a sheltered area and a permanently attached area for them to exercise in. It should be kept in a cool, dry, draught-free and well-ventilated area. If kept outdoors, rabbits need to be protected from predators, extreme weather and temperature. Rabbits kept indoors need a rabbit-proof area – i.e. a place with all wires and cables covered and any toxic plants removed. You can also cover furniture to protect it from teeth and claws.

Make sure they’ve got appropriate bedding and check it on daily. Several areas for toileting and feeding should be provided as rabbits are natural foragers and often go to the toilet while they are foraging for food. Litter trays should be big enough for your rabbit to turn around comfortably in, and filled with suitable litter such as wood or paper based, with a layer of hay on top. Remember to always provide the same number of feeding and toileting areas per rabbit, plus one extra.

If I already have a rabbit, can I adopt another one?

Introducing rabbits to each other can be a wonderful experience if you approach it in the right way. All single rabbits should be introduced gradually, however, and it can take weeks/months to fully bond them. You can find tips for bonding rabbits on our blog here.

What equipment do rabbits need?

Rabbits are most active during dawn, dusk and overnight, so they need access to their exercise area at all times. They’ll need plenty of suitable toys for mental stimulation and to wear down their teeth. You can encourage your rabbits to practice their natural chewing behaviour by giving them safe things to chew, such as apple and willow wood sticks. Rabbits also enjoy tubes to run through and hide in, as well as things they can move, such as toilet paper rolls, small empty cardboard cartons, and small piles of shredded paper, or air filled balls. You can hide treats in their toys to encourage foraging behaviour.

Platforms and hiding areas are essential for rabbits as they would naturally need to view their territory from a vantage point and hide from anything they feel threatened by.

What do rabbits eat?

Around 80% of your rabbits’ diet should be made up from good quality hay grass, so make sure they have constant access to it as they need to graze throughout the day. You can also give them good quality pellets once a day – a large tablespoon is enough. Muesli style food should be avoided as they promote selective feeding and are made up from unhealthy ingredients that provide very little nutrition.

Contrary to popular belief, carrots are not the best vegetable you can provide your rabbits as they contain high levels of sugar. Instead, try giving them fresh leafy green vegetables such as, spring greens, kale, broccoli, cauliflower leaves, dandelions and fresh herbs. Small amounts of safe fruits and carrot can be given as a treat occasionally.

Fresh water should be provided every day. Always make sure your rabbits’ have access to ceramic water bowls, as this will encourage a more natural way for them to drink and prevent them from taking in too much air from water bottles. Bottles are good for travel and as a back-up.

See all the rabbits currently looking for new homes here. 

Introducing rabbits to each other can be a wonderful experience if you approach it in the right way. Here are some tips from our rabbit experts to help get you started.

We’re often approached by families who already have a rabbit and would like to adopt a new one. It’s entirely possible to bring a new rabbit into your household if you have one already, but there are a few rules you’ll need to stick by to make sure the process runs smoothly. Firstly:

What you’ll need:

What to do:
Following this step-by-step method of rabbit bonding is the best and safest way to bond rabbits. It can take a few weeks to a few months.

If the rabbits have a proper fight at any time (i.e. where rabbits are injured), it is unlikely that the bond will work and they should not be introduced again.

If you are successful in bonding rabbits, they should not be separated unless absolutely necessary. If one is spending time at the vet, their friend should go with them in the carrier, they will stick together for comfort during stressful experiences.

Step one: getting them used to the sight and smell of one another

Step two: short introductions in a neutral area

Step three: increase time in the neutral area

Step four: leave them alone unsupervised

When they’re successfully bonded, rabbits do enjoy living together, but introductions have to be made sensitively and carefully. If this is done right, you could find that you’ve got two little friends for life!

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare. As part of Volunteer’s week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us.

What volunteer role do you do?

I adopted a pair of kittens from Bristol A.R.C. in 2019 and having seen the vital work they do, I knew I really wanted to get involved as a volunteer. I started off doing one afternoon a week in the office, supporting the fundraising team with admin tasks, and now I am here two afternoons each week. I have also taken part in fundraising events, such as bucket collections in supermarkets and supporting events held at the centre, including the Christmas Fair and the Cat Cabin Lock-Ins, where lucky supporters get to spend time with some of our furry residents!

More recently, I’ve become involved in outreach work, delivering talks to schools, youth and community groups about Bristol ARC. I really enjoy talking to people about the centre and sharing the important work done by the amazing team here. I also deliver talks to children about caring for animals and how to interact with their pets, which is very rewarding.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

The team at Bristol A.R.C. are so friendly and supportive of the volunteers and I really look forward to my time in the office each week. And of course, I always enjoy a sneaky trip over to the animal care area, for a bit of cat cuddling!

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer with us, get in touch with our Volunteer Coordinator Nancy – email volunteering@bristolarc.org.uk or visit the FAQ page on the Volunteers section of our website.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare. As part of Volunteer’s week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us.

What volunteer role do you do?

Nowadays I mainly sort out the food donations for the staff so it can be easily available for them in date and food order. I also make cards for selling at fundraising events and my local hairdresser also sells them with the proceeds going to the A.R.C.

How long have you volunteered with us for, and why did you start volunteering with us?

I have been volunteering for around 15 years and I love it. Since I retired 5 years ago I can now do more hours at Bristol A.R.C.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

Since retiring I like to feel useful, the role gives me a purpose and makes me get on my bike and come down here to volunteer no matter what the weather is like. The staff are super grateful which certainly helps on those wet days. Since I started all those years ago I have made a lot of lifelong friends with people I wouldn’t have normally met.

Have you adopted a rescue pet from us? If so who, and can you tell us a little bit about them?

I have adopted two cats, the first was in 2005 when I adopted a Toffee, my one-eyed black cat. I had her for 12 years until she sadly died aged 17. I then adopted a 10-year-old tortoise shell cat called Chloe, who I love dearly.

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer with us, get in touch with our Volunteer Coordinator Nancy – email volunteering@bristolarc.org.uk or visit the FAQ page on the Volunteers section of our website.

 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare.

As part of Volunteer’s week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us.

What volunteer role do you do?

I do the laundry two or (sometimes) three days a week. This involves washing blankets, towels, sheets, pet beds and toys.

How long have you volunteered with us for, and why did you start volunteering with us?

7 months – I was one of Nancy’s first group of volunteers and I understand we are all still here. I am a widower and retired, and I was looking for something to do but it had to be for animals (I’m not really a people person!). My son suggested the A.R.C. so I looked it up on the interwebs – doesn’t everybody? I knew what the laundry would entail because I have been a volunteer for Secret World Wildlife Rescue and I knew what sort of state the animals’ bedding would often be in. So I applied, was accepted and haven’t looked back.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

I think it’s the sense of satisfaction when the shelves are full of clean, neatly folded bedding and knowing that the animal carers can just come and take what they need without having to ‘make do’. It isn’t a glamorous job but it’s a necessary one.

Have you adopted a rescue pet from us? If so who, and can you tell us a little bit about them?

I wish I could have a cat or even two but I can’t afford the Vet’s bills. If I win the lottery I’ll fill out an application form the very next day!

What advice would you give to anyone considering volunteering with us?

Don’t hesitate. The people are lovely, the atmosphere is professional but relaxed and you can really feel like you’re doing something for all the animals that are abused, neglected or those with whom the previous owners can no longer cope.

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer with us, get in touch with our Volunteer Coordinator Nancy – email volunteering@bristolarc.org.uk or visit the FAQ page on the Volunteers section of our website.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare. As part of Volunteer’s week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us.

Phil Hawkins, 57 from Brislington, has been volunteering with us since December 2021. Phil suffers from young onset Alzheimer’s.

He was diagnosed in October 2021 and was forced to retire from his job at a local recycling centre, as well as having to return his driving licence. His condition had been worsening over the last two years, and became most noticeable during lockdown.

His wife Nicky explained, “Phil has always been a cheerful, independent person and we noticed over quite a long period that his personality had started to change. He began to forget things and didn’t seem like himself. During lockdown, with the lack of routine, this worsened, before he was finally diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s. At first he became withdrawn and he was very down – after losing his job he felt a lack of purpose”.
Day to day life became more difficult for the family, as Phil was unable to complete some of the most basic tasks at home, and routine trips like visiting his son in Ireland became more difficult. “Travelling became trickier for Phil because his reaction times are slower now, it takes him a while to adjust to situations and people don’t understand his condition – he is still young, after all, and this is a hidden disability. People might wonder why he might appear to be dithering or taking longer to do things, for example,” added Nicky.

Giving back to the community

Phil had always loved animals and so Nicky decided to contact Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, to see if he might be able to volunteer, to give him something to do and a chance to give back to the local community. Since December he has been volunteering two days per week with the charity, doing routine tasks like laundry and cleaning, as well as cat socialisation. “We’ve all seen a massive change in him since he started there – he’s regained his confidence,” said Nicky. “This has given him more of a routine and a reason to get up in the morning. It also means he has a bit of independence from us and when he comes home, he has something new to talk to the family about”.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre team for offering Phil this opportunity – it’s not always easy, and I know having a volunteer like him means certain adjustments need to be made, but they’ve revived a bit of the old Phil that we hadn’t seen in a long time, so we are very grateful,” said Nicky.

Young onset dementia

“There are support services out there for people with Alzheimer’s, but a lot of these are more geared towards older people, and Phil doesn’t see himself as an old man,” said Nicky.

Over 42,000 people in the UK are living with young onset dementia (which develops before the age of 65). Like all people with dementia, they may experience a wide range of symptoms, but they are likely to need different support than older people. “We’re delighted that Phil chose to volunteer with Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. We haven’t had a volunteer like Phil before and it’s a learning process for all of us, but he’s been a big help to the team and we’re pleased that we’ve been able to give him a bit of confidence back,” said Nancy Williams, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

If you have any questions or would like to volunteer with us, get in touch with our Volunteer Coordinator Nancy – email volunteering@bristolarc.org.uk or visit the FAQ page on the Volunteers section of our website.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare.

As part of Volunteer’s week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us. Justine has been with us for many years helping the Animal Care Team. Here, she tells us about her role.

What volunteer role do you do?

I volunteer three or four mornings a week and wherever help is needed. I work mostly with the cats and rabbits and I love spending time with them. I help with cleaning their pens, feeding them, washing bowls, cleaning floors, sorting laundry or anything else needed. And most importantly, giving the animals lots of love and cuddles!

How long have you volunteered with us for, and why did you start volunteering with us?

I’ve had the privilege of being a Volunteer here at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre since October 2021. Prior to joining them, I was a volunteer at my children’s school for many years until they moved on to University/Secondary School.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

Being an animal owner and lover all of my life, I’ve always wanted to work with them and to help them in any way I could. During the Pandemic, we sadly lost our beloved and beautiful cat Archie. He was such a huge member of our family and losing him was too emotional to put into words. The grief of losing a pet is heart breaking. They are part of your family and life, giving you unconditional love and support. A cuddle from them always seems to make things a little bit brighter. After losing Archie, I wasn’t ready to adopt another cat but I did have lots of time and love to give to those animals in need which is why, when I was given this amazing opportunity to volunteer here, it meant so much to me. Anything I can do that helps to give that extra time to the wonderful staff who work here to do other vital things is so important. They work exceptionally hard and it’s so clear to see how much they love and care for all the animals here. I am made to feel so welcome and appreciated and hope that whatever little I can do is making a difference to all the lovely staff and animals. Being a volunteer here has given me a much needed purpose in life and means so much to me. So many animals are rescued here but they have also helped rescue me too.

Interested in volunteering? Check out our Volunteers Page for more information. 

 

 

 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers come to us for many different reasons, but are united in their enthusiasm and commitment to great animal welfare.

As part of Volunteers’ Week this year, we’re showcasing our volunteers’ stories and what drives them to work with us. Here, we ask Helen about her role with us and why she loves it at Bristol A.R.C.

What volunteer role do you do?

I am primarily a volunteer with the Fundraising Team, although I have been a dog walker in the past. Within the Fundraising Team, I usually work a day a week in the Office, doing a wide variety of admin tasks necessary to help keep things running smoothly. I also help with the planning and organising of Fundraising Events, and often help out at events themselves.

How long have you volunteered with us for, and why did you start volunteering with us?

I’ve been volunteering for around 15 years now. Initially I started dog walking and then began to help out at Fundraising Events. I’ve always valued volunteering roles, and as a huge animal lover this role was a perfect fit for me to support all the outstanding and valuable work that Bristol A.R.C do.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

I enjoy every bit of it! Not only do I love that I am contributing in my own small way to the amazing work that Bristol A.R.C. does, I enjoy meeting the animals that are being cared for and hearing their stories, especially when they’re able to move on to their forever homes.

Have you adopted a rescue pet from us? If so who, and can you tell us a little bit about them?

Since 2005, I have adopted seven rabbits from Bristol A.R.C. Our current bunnies are called Tiggy and Pearl, who are two adorable, fluffy, white sisters who we adopted in August 2020. They live in what is now known as ’The Bunny Palace’ in our garden – a purpose built home, with indoor space for them to be shut up safely at night, and an area with many toys and platforms for them to enjoy safely every day.

What advice would you give to anyone considering volunteering with us?

Do it! You will love it. Make sure you look at all the various opportunities and see what fits into your life right now, so that you can commit to things you will have time for and enjoy. There are always opportunities for ad hoc fundraising events and activities if you are unable to make a regular commitment. I would recommend contacting the team to discuss how your skills and availability fit with roles on offer.

Interested in volunteering? Check out our Volunteers Page for more information. 

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre cares for thousands of sick, injured and stray animals every year – and we couldn’t do this vital work without the help of our dedicated volunteers.

Helen has been with us for many years and is one of our valued team of Trustees. Here, she tells us about her role.

What volunteer role do you do?

I am very proud to be a Trustee of Bristol A.R.C., being accepted onto the Board in May 2020. I also help out at events and wherever they need me.

How long have you volunteered with us for, and why did you start volunteering with us?

I have been a Bristol A.R.C. volunteer for 11 years. I have always been an animal lover and had family dogs growing up, but a busy working life meant little time to devote to having my own dog.

In 2010 I took a three month sabbatical and after travelling the USA for 5 weeks, I wanted to get involved in voluntary work, so my love of dogs drew me to sign up as volunteer dog walker at Bristol A.R.C. This fed my desire to do and learn more, so I also became a volunteer animal care assistant for four years on my day off. I loved meeting and helping the huge variety of dogs, getting to know their individual needs and personalities and seeing how they developed emotionally and physically.

This provided fabulous insight in to the amazing work the Bristol A.R.C. team do to help, heal and home the animals in their care, and the patience, skill and complexities involved in handling the animals most in need.

What do you love most about Volunteering with us at Bristol A.R.C.?

Making even a small contribution to improving animal welfare, across a wide range of domestic and wild animals in our area. Supporting the fantastic staff at Bristol A.R.C. who work so hard to help the animals and humans in our local community through education, treatment and rehabilitation.

Have you adopted a rescue pet from us? If so who, and can you tell us a little bit about them?

Yes, my reduced working hours meant we were able to adopt our dog, Bonnie from Bristol A.R.C. in November 2016. She is an unknown mixed breed, perhaps Rottweiler/Collie/Lurcher? She was around one when we she was found abandoned, tied to a tree and handed in to Bristol A.R.C. She was nervous and under-nourished but I fell in love with her when I got to walk and play with her doing my volunteer ACA role, and it wasn’t long before we brought her home. She still has a few little anxieties but we love her to bits and she is now such a big part of our lives.

Interested in volunteering? Check out our Volunteers Page for more information. 

 

The new dog sensory garden at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, which is the first of its kind in the city, is to be officially unveiled this week.

It includes a balance beam made from recycled bottles for the dogs to climb on, dog-friendly plants like ferns, lavender and chamomile for snuffling around in, tractor tyres filled with different textures, including sand and gravel and bark, wind chimes for additional sensory enrichment and even a little Wendy house for them to explore.

The project was funded via an appeal to the local community last year, which raised more than £13,000 and was built with the help of volunteers from across the city.

Zita Polgar, Senior Animal Behaviourist at Bristol Animal Rescue said: “Many of the dogs who are taken into our care have come from difficult circumstances. They’re in an unfamiliar environment with people they have never seen before. They may be scared and stressed. While our team do all they can to help our dogs feel comfortable and happy while they’re here, kennels are a stressful environment for them. Beyond their daily walks and enrichment activity, they need a space to relax. That’s why this dog sensory garden is so important to us. It will give them a space to enjoy the outdoors and really lean into their natural behaviours and just have fun”.

“The public have been so generous – not only by donating money but also giving us their time to create this space, which is so needed by the animals in our care. We’re absolutely thrilled to see this project, which was so long in the planning, come to fruition and to see the dogs start to enjoy their time there,” said Fundraising Manager Katie Love.

Case study: Binx

One of the dogs who’ll be benefitting from the new dog sensory garden is Binx, a young black Labrador Retriever Crossbreed. Like many dogs who arrive here, Binx was found as a stray.

“The kennel environment can be quite stressful for intelligent dogs with high energy levels like Binx,” explained Zita.

“He needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation, and since he can become anxious and frustrated around other dogs, finding places to walk him where he won’t encounter other dogs can be tricky here in the city.

“He especially enjoys scent detection, so the array of scented plants in our garden are great for keeping his keen nose occupied. His favourite thing in the world is playing with toys – especially tennis balls – so having a space on site where he can do that has been a real game changer for Binx in terms of his training”.

A 10-month old French bulldog signed over to the care of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre with life-limiting injuries has now made an amazing recovery thanks to the charity’s hardworking team.

With the cost of living causing many pet owners financial difficulties, the charity is seeing an increase in animals arriving with severe medical conditions.

One such pet is Stanley, who arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre four months ago via the RSPCA Inspectors, with a fracture on his right elbow, a common injury in juvenile French Bulldogs but, as it had been left untreated, it had become so much worse and affected his ability to walk.

He also had a skin allergy, affecting his feet, skin and ears, for which he needed medication. Like many other dogs of his breed, he has excessive facial folds, which caused eczema and was quite uncomfortable for him.

“Stanley is a sweet little puppy but when he arrived we immediately knew that all wasn’t right with him. He was struggling to walk and clearly in a great deal of pain. Nevertheless, he was very tolerant of being handled. It was almost like he knew we were trying to help him,” said Georgia Hawkins of the Animal Behaviour Team at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“After some time getting to know him, we discovered that he hadn’t been properly socialised. He was very vocal when left alone and could sometimes get frustrated and snappy, which is understandable given the amount of pain he must have been in,” she added.

Once he had been signed over by his previous owners, Stanley was rushed in for emergency surgery with our on-site vet team and has since undergone daily physiotherapy to help get his legs working again.

Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, said: “Despite our surgical attempts, we’ve been unable to correct his elbow problem, although his leg works better than it did before. He’ll always have a limp, but it doesn’t limit his enjoyment of life and, aided by some anti-inflammatories he’s a pretty active chap. We have also performed some surgery on his facial folds, which will give him some relief from the skin inflammation which was bothering him before”.

After Stanley had been treated and spent some time with our animal care team, he began to relax and his cheeky personality has now begun to emerge.

“Stanley is now an enthusiastic little pup who is affectionate and playful. He likes to say hello to everyone he passes in the street so they can have the opportunity to admire him – and he does have a lot of admirers! This gorgeous boy deserves a home full of support and plenty of cuddles,” added Georgia.

A growing problem

Stanley is just one of many animals we see who arrive at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre with significant medical issues.

“Many pets are going without urgent medical care, particularly during the cost of living crisis and unfortunately we are picking up the pieces,” explained Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“More animals are coming into our care with complex needs, and fewer people want to adopt them. We need support to give more of them a second chance at a happy life,” she added.

We’re here to make sure that no animal gets left behind, but we’re up against a challenge. Nationally, animal intake is up 8.4%* as pet owners struggle to afford their pets’ care during the cost of living crisis.

We’re seeing an increase in pets arriving with untreated medical conditions, which means they’re staying longer too – the average stay for a dog is up from 85 days to 93 days. Not only that, but there are fewer people willing to adopt, particularly dogs like Stanley with complex needs.

Dogs like Stanley need time, patience and care. We wouldn’t be able to provide that without our kind supporters. By giving what you can, you’re helping to ensure dogs like Stanley get a second chance at a happy life.

Please donate to our Spring Appeal to help more vulnerable animals like Stanley.

 

A severely injured lurcher dog who arrived in a terrible state has made an excellent recovery, thanks to the team at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Soldier was found by a kind member of the public straying in a nearby wildlife area and arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in an awful state. He was dangerously underweight with a protruding rib cage, he had open sores on his legs, and his ear tip was damaged.

It was obvious that his wounds and injuries had been left untreated for some time and this poor boy was behaving like he was in shock. He was very accepting of all the care he received, he obviously knew the team was there to help him.

“We have no way of knowing how long he had been straying for before arriving here and his injuries were not fresh. His body condition alone would tell us that he had been neglected,” said his carer Kayleigh. “He was worried by things when he first arrived in January, but he’s come such a long way since then”.

Gradually over the past few months in our care, Soldier has started to find his feet again.

“He can still be a little worried, but we are seeing his real personality shine through now. He loves cuddles and will happily sit for half an hour or more on someone’s lap enjoying the attention. Now that he’s used to human affection, he can get quite lonely and loves being in the company of people; this is so positive for a dog who was also neglected by people. We’d like to find him a home where he’ll have lots of attention, ideally someone who is home a lot and can spend all day with him – he deserves the very best after everything he’s been through,” added Kayleigh.

“He’s still a bit anxious around other dogs, although we have carefully introduced him to another dog in our care and they have enjoyed a few walks together. All in all, he’s just a really good boy and it’s fantastic to see how far he’s come during his time in our care”.

Soldier is currently on a care plan to help him gain weight and, once he’s reached his goal he’ll be ready to find a new home.

A growing problem
Soldier is just one of many animals we see who arrive at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre with significant medical issues.

“Many pets are going without urgent medical care, particularly during the cost of living crisis and unfortunately we are picking up the pieces,” explained Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“More animals are coming into our care with complex needs, and fewer people want to adopt them. We need support to give more of them a second chance at a happy life,” she added.

We’re here to make sure that no animal gets left behind, but we’re up against a challenge. Nationally, animal intake is up 8.4%* as pet owners struggle to afford their pets’ care during the cost of living crisis.

We’re seeing an increase in pets arriving with untreated medical conditions, which means they’re staying longer too – the average stay for a dog is up from 85 days to 93 days. Not only that, but there are fewer people willing to adopt, particularly dogs like Soldier with complex needs.

Dogs like Soldier need time, patience and care. We wouldn’t be able to provide that without our kind supporters. By giving what you can, you’re helping to ensure dogs like Soldier get a second chance at a happy life.

Please donate to our Spring Appeal to help more vulnerable animals like Soldier.

After experiencing neglect, Maddie the French bulldog had completely shut down and feared people, but a dose of love – along with the right vet treatment – transformed this scared little dog into a little love bug.

Maddie was removed from her previous owner as part of a prosecution case by the local authority. She arrived underweight, suffering with chronic eye conditions in both her eyes and various other medical issues. She was terrified of people, to the point where she was almost completely shut down.

She spent over a year with us as the case proceeded, during which time she received complex treatment for her painful eye conditions, as well as support from our behaviour team to learn to trust people and once signed over she had an operation to remove one of her eyes. Following much-needed care and rehabilitation with us, she’s doing so much better – she’s even starting to enjoy cuddles!

“Maddie was very scared and confused when she first arrived here and it took a long time for her to be able to trust people,” said her carer Rachel. “Once she had received treatment for her medical issues and started to feel safe around us, she came out of her shell. She didn’t cope very well in kennels, so she started spending quite a lot of time with our reception team in the office during the day, and that’s when we started seeing her quirky personality come to life. She is now very playful and can be quite the diva when she wants to be!”.

“She particularly enjoys climbing in and out of recycling boxes and throwing things around, which the team find funny. She just loves being the centre of attention!”

A growing problem

Maddie is just one of many animals we see who arrive at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre with significant medical issues.

“Many pets are going without urgent medical care, particularly during the cost of living crisis and unfortunately we are picking up the pieces,” explained Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“More animals are coming into our care with complex needs, and fewer people want to adopt them. We need support to give more of them a second chance at a happy life,” she added.

We’re here to make sure that no animal gets left behind, but we’re up against a challenge. Nationally, animal intake is up 8.4%* as pet owners struggle to afford their pets’ care during the cost of living crisis.

We’re seeing an increase in pets arriving with untreated medical conditions, which means they’re staying longer too – the average stay for a dog is up from 85 days to 93 days. Not only that, but there are fewer people willing to adopt, particularly dogs like Maddie with complex needs.

Dogs like Maddie need time, patience and care. We wouldn’t be able to provide that without our kind supporters. By giving what you can, you’re helping to ensure dogs like Maddie get a second chance at a happy life.

Please donate to our Spring Appeal to help more vulnerable animals like Maddie.

A home for Maddie

As well as seeking donations to our Spring Appeal, we will also soon be looking for a new Maddie. She would like a home with a loving, patient owner who has a lot of time to spend with her – ideally someone who has a predictable routine. Preferably she needs to live with someone who has no intention of moving, so Maddie can get to know her surroundings and get used to the home she will live in for the rest of her life. Once she’s settled in, she will eventually need her other eye removed, but our behaviourists and vets have agreed that this shouldn’t impact her quality of life too much, provided she is settled in a routine and knows her new house well by then.

Watch Maddie’s story

 

Easter Sunday is a time when families get together and enjoy food together, but beware the dangers to your pets from those tasty morsels left out where they can get them.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, the city’s oldest and largest animal charity, has released a list of the most toxic Easter foods for pets – and you may be surprised at some of them.

“It’s widely known that chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats, so most pet owners know to keep them hidden, but there are some other foods that people might traditionally feed their pets without thinking about – and it’s important that everyone is aware of those too,” said Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“We all tend to let go a little at Easter and perhaps our diets aren’t as healthy as they usually are, but it is essential that we resist the temptation to allow our pets to do the same. Some of the things we like to eat at Easter can actually cause serious lasting harm to your pet – and in some cases be fatal – so we’re urging all pet owners to be cautious this year and make sure your Easter treats aren’t left where your pets can tuck into them,” advised Dr Pacini.

Seven things to keep away from your pets this Easter

1. Chocolate
The chemical theobromine found in chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can be extremely dangerous. Avoid putting any chocolate treats on display as the temptation will be too much!

2. Hot cross buns
They’re a family favourite at this time of year, but currants, sultanas and raisins can all be extremely dangerous to dogs. Keep any items that might contain these – and that includes hot cross buns – as far away from pets as possible.

3. Alcohol
Just like with humans, alcohol can seriously affect your dog’s ability to function. They will become wobbly and drowsy, and in extreme cases this can cause a coma. Never leave any bottles or glasses containing alcohol unattended where your dog can reach.

4. Fizzy drinks
Artificial sweeteners like Xylitol are found in many diet drinks and sweets and it is poisonous to dogs, so be sure to keep them away from these.

5. Bones from a roast dinner
The traditional meat for Easter Sunday is roast lamb, which is usually ok for dogs to eat (barring any pre-existing medical issues they might have) but it’s important that it’s not cooked with any seasonings or spices as those can create gut problems for your dog. Be wary of bones, however – any kind of animal bones can be risky for dogs because they can cause blockages which lead to choking, and sharp ends can puncture their intestines.

6. Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives
Whether cooked or uncooked, they can cause toxicity. Remember, stuffing and roast dinner accompaniments may contain these items too.

7. Leftovers
Generally speaking, human food is not appropriate for your pets – a traditional roast dinner, for example, would be much too salty for a dog’s body to cope with. In extreme cases too much salt could cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, high temperature, and seizures. Avoid the temptation to give them leftovers and make sure you dispose of them safely, where your pets can’t reach them.

If you suspect your pet has eaten any of the above, contact your vet immediately. Most vet practices offer an out of hours emergency line.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is asking people to please donate to their Spring appeal to help the animals in our care – you can donate online here.

As it’s Pet Theft Awareness Day on 14th March, we’re sharing some tips for pet owners to help prevent your pet from being stolen or becoming a target.

Dog thefts in the UK reached a seven-year high, with more than 2,700 snatched in 2021 (figures from Direct Line Pet Insurance). Not only is it a criminal offence, but it’s also heartbreaking for owners and their families when a beloved pet is stolen, and it can be distressing for the animal too.

Update your microchip
It’s a legal requirement for all dogs to be microchipped but what a lot of owners often forget to do is keep their contact details up to date on the database if they move home or change phone number. It’s vital that you do this as it gives you the best chance of being reunited with your pet quickly if they should get lost for any reason.

It’s also a good idea to save your pet’s microchip number and database contact number in your phone so that you have it to hand in an emergency.

Make sure their ID is updated
All dogs must wear a collar with the name and address of their owner engraved on it, or on a plate or tag attached to it. It’s a good idea to include your mobile number on this as it means you’re more likely to be reunited quickly. (Cat collars need to be quick release to prevent injury)

Train your dog
Training your dog to come back when called is important, and never let them off the lead unless you’re sure they will come back to you. A long-line lead can be a good compromise if you’re in any doubt or if you’re in an unfamiliar place where your dog might get lost.

Keep them close
Don’t leave your pet unattended outside a shop or supermarket or in a vehicle.

Secure your home
There have been cases of dogs going missing from their own back gardens, so make sure your dog is not left unsupervised there – keep them in view at all times. It’s also recommended that you fit a lock to your garden gates and a bell so that you can hear when it opens.

Take pictures
This is something most doting pet owners do, but it can make a huge difference when searching for a lost pet if you have recent pictures of the pet, as well as photos of you with the pet. If they have any distinguishing features, it’s also worth capturing a photo that shows those too.

Use trusted carers only
If you’re planning to be away or need someone to walk to your dog while you’re at work, make sure to use a reputable company or kennels and check references for dog or house sitters.

What to do if your pet is lost

Do you want to rent a property but struggle to find one because you have a pet? Some landlords are hesitant to let to tenants with pets as they’re worried about potential damage to their property. Thanks to recent changes to the government’s Model Tenancy Agreement, however, it should be easier for tenants to secure housing with their beloved pets. Here are a few tips to help overcome some of the most common issues.

A recent study of pet owners revealed that nearly a third have been hiding their pets from their landlords for over three years, with 38% saying they did not feel comfortable asking their landlord for permission to keep a pet, and almost a third saying they had previously experienced difficulty finding a property to rent as a pet owner. Tenants admitted to using various ways of hiding their pets from landlords during inspections. Many tenants said this was having a negative impact on their mental health, with some forced to give away their pets in order to find accommodation.

What changes the government have introduced?
The government has now removed the blanket ban on pets from the Model Tenancy Agreement, which, according to its website, means that responsible tenants with well-behaved pets will be able to secure leases more easily through the new Model Tenancy Agreement’. This will come as welcome news to those who decided to adopt pets during the pandemic.

The government website also says that ‘under the new agreement, rejections should only be made where there is good reason, such as in smaller properties or flats where owning a pet could be impractical. To ensure landlords are protected, tenants will continue to have a legal duty to repair or cover the cost of any damage to the property’.

How can I find a pet friendly property to rent?
Since 2018 Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has had a partnership with The Letting Game, a pet friendly letting agent local to us that specialises in partnering responsible pet owning tenants with landlords who welcome pets.

As part of this partnership, all tenants renting through The Letting Game will receive a move in pack that includes advice specially written by our animal behaviourists on how to best introduce your pet to your new property. Tenants letting through them also receive free cat microchipping.

How can you stop pets from damaging a rental property?
If you’re worried that your pet may cause issues while in rental accommodation, here are a few tips on how to deal with the most common issues with cats and dogs.

Toilet tactics
When entering a new environment for the first time, some cats and dogs may want to mark the territory by urinating on the floor or walls. For dogs, we’d suggest that the first thing you do in a new property is taking them outside to the area where they’ll be toileting. Take them into the garden and let them sniff around and get used to going out there. Use positive reinforcement and praise them when they do their business there for the first time.

For cats, you’ll need to keep them indoors for a minimum of two weeks at first, so they have an opportunity to make themselves at home. This means they will need a litter box, at least in the interim. Make sure this is easy for them to access, as private as possible, and kept away from their food – much like us, cats don’t like to eat and go to the toilet in the same place!

If there are any wee accidents, non-ammonia based products are best to clean up the area as they take away the scent and reduce the likelihood of the animal using the same spot again.

Provide stimulation
Often when cats and dogs scratch walls and furniture it can be due to boredom or anxiety. Providing engaging toys, scratch mats, puzzle feeders and raggies can help to keep their minds and paws active – and off your landlord’s property!

For cats, make sure to place your scratching post close to where your cat normally sleeps. They can also be encouraged to scratch in appropriate areas by spraying a pheromone called FeliScratch on their scratching posts.

Consider their emotional wellbeing
For dogs in particular, being in a new environment and away from you (if you’re at work all day, for example) can be very hard on them and cause separation anxiety. They may struggle to cope with being left alone in a new flat or house and that’s when you’re likely to see them acting out and perhaps damaging things. If you need to leave for long periods of time during the day, consider hiring a dog walker or taking your dog to a doggy day care – or even just having a trusted friend drop by to take them for a walk and ensure they have some attention while you’re out.

Finally, if your pet’s behaviour is consistently inappropriate and you feel worried about it, it’s worth talking to your vet or a certified clinical animal behaviourist (CCAB) who can help to determine the cause and make sure they get the right support.

Think you know all about guinea pigs? Find out from our experts what’s true and false.

There are many common misconceptions about adopting guinea pigs, so we’re keen to dispel some of those and make sure everyone understands what brilliant pets they are – and also what you’ll need to do to ensure they’re properly looked after.

Myth 1: Guinea pigs are great starter pets for kids

While Guinea pigs make great family pets, adults should always take full responsibility for them with help from children where appropriate. Guinea pigs are prey animals and therefore naturally quite skittish. All handling should be supervised by a parent and kept to a minimum in order to prevent stress and protect their fragile bodies.

Myth 2: Guinea pigs don’t need a large living space

Although many pet shops still recommend a single hutch for guinea pigs, this is not appropriate for enabling your guinea pigs to live enriched lives. They need plenty of space to romp around and play with other guinea pigs. Many people now house their guinea pigs indoors, such as in a conservatory or secure shed. As a minimum, living space with a run attached should be at least 4ft X 2ft, with additional space for pairs or groups.

Myth 3: Guinea pigs and rabbits can be housed together

Guinea pigs are extremely social creatures, and should always have the opportunity to be around other guinea pigs. While guinea pigs and rabbits have similar care needs, they should not be kept together for several reasons:

Watch the video below for more details

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has released a list of the most toxic Christmas foods for pets – and you may be surprised at some of them.

“It’s widely known that chocolate is highly toxic to dogs, so most pet owners know to keep them hidden, but there are some other foods that people might traditionally feed their pets without thinking about – and it’s important that everyone is aware of those too,” said Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager.

“We all tend to let go a little at Christmas and perhaps our diets aren’t as healthy as they usually are, but it is essential that we resist the temptation to allow our pets to do the same. Some of the things we like to eat at Christmas can actually cause serious lasting harm to your pet – and in some cases be fatal – so we’re urging all pet owners to be cautious this year and make sure your festive treats aren’t left where your pets can tuck into them,” advised Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet.

Seven things to keep away from your pets this Christmas

1. Chocolate
The chemical theobromine found in chocolate is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can be extremely dangerous. Avoid putting any chocolate treats on or under the Christmas tree as the temptation will be too much!

2. Christmas pudding, cakes and mince pies
Grapes, currants, sultanas and raisins can all be extremely dangerous to dogs. Keep any items that might contain these as far away from pets as possible.

3. Alcohol
Just like with humans, alcohol can seriously affect your dog’s ability to function. They will become wobbly and drowsy, and in extreme cases this can cause a coma. Never leave any bottles or glasses containing alcohol unattended where your dog can reach.

4. Fizzy drinks
Artificial sweeteners like Xylitol are found in many diet drinks and sweets and it is poisonous to dogs, so be sure to keep them away from these.

5. Turkey/chicken bones
Any kind of animal bones can be risky for dogs because they can cause blockages which lead to choking, and sharp ends can puncture their intestines.

6. Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives
Whether cooked or uncooked, they can cause toxicity. Remember, stuffing and other Christmas treats contain these items too.

7. Leftovers
Generally speaking, human food is not appropriate for your pets – a traditional Christmas dinner, for example, would be much too salty for a dog’s body to cope with. In extreme cases too much salt could cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, high temperature, and seizures. Avoid the temptation to give them leftovers and make sure you dispose of them safely, where your pets can’t reach them.

If you suspect your pet has eaten any of the above, contact your vet immediately. Most vet practices offer an out of hours emergency line.

Anyone can fundraise for Bristol A.R.C. – the more the merrier! This Christmas we’re asking our supporters to get creative and find new and fun ways to raise money.

The work we do helping, healing and homing vulnerable animals in Bristol carries on all year round, but Christmas is an especially important time for us as it’s the season of giving. We rely almost entirely on support from the local community to keep us going, so we’d love it if you could please help carry on the kindness and fundraise for us this year.*

Here are some ideas to get you started…

1. Be a wrap star
Set up a gift wrapping stall in your workplace/school where you wrap gifts in exchange for donations to Bristol A.R.C. All you need to do is supply the paper, sellotape and hard graft. Give your friends/colleagues some notice so they can bring their gifts in to be wrapped. Not only does it save them time, but the money you raise will help animals in need. It’s a win/win!

2. Christmas cake sale
Everyone loves cake, especially at Christmas. Hosting a bake sale at your workplace or school is a great way to raise funds for us.

3. Jumper for joy
A Christmas jumper competition is a great way to raise money for Bristol A.R.C. Ask your friends/colleagues to pay to enter and wear their jazziest Christmas jumper for the occasion – then award a prize for the funniest jumpers.

4. Sing for their supper
You don’t have to be Mariah Carey to spread a bit of Christmas cheer through singing. All you need is a few friends in fine voice and a collection bucket (which we can supply). Carolling in your school, workplace or place of worship is a wonderful way to raise much needed funds for vulnerable animals this Christmas.

5. Light relief
Got an impressive display of Christmas lights outside your house? Why not use that to help animals in your local community? In the past our supporters have done this by encouraging friends and neighbours who enjoy their light displays to donate to us – most either ask for donations to be posted through the letterbox, or set up JustGiving pages for people to donate to.

6. Brilliant baubles
Allow your friends and colleagues to show off their artistic skills by hosting a bauble decorating contest. Get some plain white baubles and ask them to draw or paint a design on them in return for a donation. Make sure each participant tags the bauble with their name. Get your boss or teachers to judge the winners.

7. Run, Santa, run!
Fun runs are a great way to raise money all year round, but how about adding a little festive spice by asking your runners to dress as Santa Claus for the occasion? A Santa Run is a great way to keep fit and raise money – and it makes a great day out for all your family and friends, who will surely donate to see a gaggle of Santas running for their lives?!

8. Christmas crafternoon
Hosting a Christmas crafternoon is a great way to prepare for the festive season, whilst raising vital funds for us. Making Christmas cards, crackers and table decorations will not only save you money at Christmas, but if you encourage everyone participating to donate to Bristol A.R.C., it will also be doing a good deed for animals in need.

9. Secret Santa
If your workplace usually organises a Secret Santa present giving for your office Christmas party, why not make us your Secret Santa instead? Instead of buying gifts your colleagues may not want, encourage your workplace to make a donation to us instead.

10. Christmas movie marathon
It’s never too early to watch your favourite Christmas film. Whether it’s Elf, Home Alone, A Muppet Christmas Carol or (perhaps controversially?) Die Hard – a sponsored festive film marathon is a fantastic way to show you care and help Bristol A.R.C. this year.

Need more ideas? Some support to get started? We’re here to support you throughout your fundraising journey, from setting up a fundraising page, to providing collection tins, buckets and more.

Contact our Fundraising Officer Jodie on fundraising@bristolarc.org.uk.

All those changes in routine, visitors, loud noises and decorations can get too much for pets. You may find that your pet becomes more anxious than usual, or displays unusual behaviours. Here are some things to consider:

Routine: make sure their feeding, exercise, toileting and sleep routines stay consistent.

Visitors: if you have guests over, introduce them carefully and allow your pet to take things at their own pace. They may not want to be petted by new people, and that’s ok.

Space: make sure they have a quiet place away from all the action where they can relax and won’t be disturbed.

Company: if you’re going out over the festive season, make sure your pet isn’t left alone for too long. Arrange for them to have someone they trust around to keep them company.

Familiarity: if you’re taking your dog to visit family or friends, take things that smell familiar, like their own bed and their favourite toys and chews to help them feel secure and entertained while away.

By being mindful of your pet’s needs this holiday season, you can help them stay their merry and bright selves.

For those of us with small furries like rabbits, hamsters and ferrets, winter time can bring a few additional welfare needs that you’ll need to be aware of to ensure your pets are snuggly and happy through the colder months. Here’s some advice from our resident smalls expert on how best to prepare for this.

Winter may not be quite here yet, but now’s the time to start preparing if you have pets at home. Small animals, like other pets, feel the cold too, so although your pet may be used to living outside for some of the time, there are a few additional things you’ll need to do when the weather starts to turn colder. These include:

Finally, remember that as we get closer to Christmas and visitors start popping round more often, you might want to ensure your pets keep to their usual routine as much as possible, and have a safe space they can retreat to if it all gets too much. Some small animals like being handled, but not all of them, so making sure that any visitors you do have are aware of this and behave in a way that’s sympathetic to the needs of your pet is key.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is bidding for a cash boost from the Tesco Community Grants initiative. Tesco works with community charity Groundwork to run its community funding scheme, which sees grants of up to £1,500, £1,000 and £500 awarded to local community projects.

Three groups in every community have been shortlisted to receive the cash award and shoppers are being invited to head along to Tesco stores to vote for who they think should take away the top grant. Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is one of the groups on the shortlist.

We’ve requested the grant to buy new planters to improve the wellbeing of the animals (and hardworking people) at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. We want to use healing and therapeutic plants to enhance our outdoor spaces, improving the environment and wellbeing for our people, our animals and nature.

The planters themselves each save 2,374 2pt milk containers from going to landfill and our oceans and come with a 35 year guarantee, from talking to our volunteers we know this is important to them. They also provide seating that all visitors can enjoy, especially volunteers who need a break during their day.

“It would mean so much to us to receive this grant. It’s been a tough year for the charity, with the cost of living crisis pushing demand for our services up and more animals being brought to our door. We could all – both our animals and the people who care for them – benefit from the healing power of plants this year,” said Katie Love, Fundraising & Communications Manager for Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Voting is open in all Tesco stores in October, November, December and customers will cast their vote using a token given to them at the check-out each time they shop.

Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “Tesco Community Grants help support local good causes but especially those projects supporting young people, those providing food, and local causes close to our colleagues’ hearts.”

Groundwork’s National Chief Executive, Graham Duxbury, said: “Tesco Community Grants continues to give local projects the boost they need to help their communities thrive. By funding services which support young people and reduce food poverty, we hope to facilitate positive change from the ground up across the UK. We are pleased to have been able to help so many local good causes over the years and look forward to seeing what community organisations can achieve in the future with the right resources.”

Funding is available to community groups and charities looking to fund local projects that bring benefits to communities, particularly those helping to provide food and giving children the support they need for a good start in life. Anyone can nominate a project and organisations can apply online. To find out more visit www.tesco.com/communitygrants.

Bristol Bears offer their ‘sup-paw-t’ to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s PJs For Pets Appeal.

Bristol Bears players brought their dogs along recently for a special walkies with the team from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre to help raise awareness of a new campaign launching this October.
Jake Heenan and his rescue dog Brodie, Steven Luatua, and his staffy Quinn, Jake Woolmore and his dog Eric, and Joe Joyce with his dogs Thor and Gunner, all put their best paws forward to encourage the local community to take part in PJs for Pets.

School children, businesses and even sports teams across Bristol are being invited to ditch their uniforms and put on their PJs instead from 10th – 15th October to raise funds for animals in need.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre’s PJs For Pets campaign aims to raise much needed funds for the animal welfare charity. Participants can choose a day between 10th – 15th October to wear their pyjamas to school, work or on the pitch, and donate £1 per person to the cause. Every penny raised will go towards caring for homeless pets in Bristol.

The charity is more in need of support than ever, as more local families struggle to afford their pets, and demand soars for its Outreach vet clinic – which offers free and low cost vet care for pet owners on low incomes or benefits.

Maisie Barrett, Fundraising Officer at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, said: “We’re so grateful to Bristol Bears for joining us to launch this campaign. There’s never been a more desperate time for many of Bristol’s pet owners, as the current crisis forces them to cut back and, in some sad cases, even give up their pets. We’re here to give as many of those animals as possible a second chance at a happy life and we hope that Bristol will get on board with PJs for Pets and help raise money for the vulnerable animals we care for”.

Andrew Bell, Professional Development Manager at Bristol Bears, said: “Bristol Bears are a dog loving team and we’ve seen first-hand all the great work that Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been doing with the city’s homeless pets. We’re encouraging all our supporters to speak to your school, your employers, and your local community groups, get your PJs on and get involved this October!”

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Lucy, who suffers from anxiety, adopted Stanley the cat a year ago and says having him around has helped her through some difficult moments.

How did you come to adopt Stanley?

We decided to adopt as we have always had cats, and our last one passed away through the pandemic. My partner was working full time and I was studying at home so I was lonely. I also have anxiety and knew that having animals around always helped so adopting was a no brainer! Stanley is FIV + and we think is around 4-8 years old and when we adopted him the only information Bristol ARC had was that he was a stray wandering the streets and someone brought him in as they regularly saw him hanging around the same area.

I first spotted Stanley when I was looking online at adopting a cat in Bristol and when I saw he had FIV I thought he would be a good match as we are in a flat with limited access to outdoors.

What were your first impressions after adopting Stanley?

When I first met Stanley I was shocked at how confident he was for being a stray and how much he seemed to enjoy human company. When we first brought him home i was expecting him to hide for the first day or two but the second he came out of the carrier he was strutting round like he’d always lived here.

Can you tell us a bit about Stanley’s personality?

Stanley is a very curious boy who LOVES climbing, playing with his vast toy collection, super energetic bundle of fun. His favourite thing to do is play with string and cardboard boxes – its the simple things! And we always seem to find him napping on his back with all four paws in the air. He constantly has us laughing or “awww”-ing and we couldn’t imagine a life without him.

How has having Stanley in your life improved your mental wellbeing?

Before we adopted Stanley I was having regular anxiety attacks and struggled leaving the house. Stanley has provided me with so much joy, laughter, and non-judgemental unconditional love and has helped me through difficult moments.

What would you say to anyone considering adopting a pet?

To anyone thinking of adopting, I would say please absolutely do. I know a lot of people say “you never know what you’re getting with a rescue” and that’s just not always true. Stanley, despite being a street cat is a loving, confident boy. The truth is you don’t always know what you’re getting with any animal, when you’re buying from a breeder. Animals personalities vary and rescues are nearly always loving and grateful for a second chance at life. I know that I will always adopt and I really think more people should do to for so many reasons. But the main one is, its juts a good, caring thing to do!

Marcella and Alex Mercer adopted their dog Olive from us in 2018 and instantly fell in love with her. At age 13, Olive was an older dog but still incredibly lively and cuddly. They had 11 months with her before she sadly became ill and died, but her memory has endured and the couple haven’t stopped missing her.

Last week, Marcella and Alex got married at Syrencot in Wiltshire and, as part of their wedding day celebrations in lieu of party favours, they opted to make a donation to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in memory of Olive.

The couple have since got another staffy, Bluebell (pictured in their wedding photo above), who was present on the day and of course took a starring role in the proceedings!

Olive meant so much to us so even though she’s no longer here, we wanted to honour her memory and make her a part of our special day. Making this donation was a great way to share just how much we love her – and Bluebell – and offer a sustainable gift that helps other dogs just like her to have a second chance at their happily ever after.

Would you like to donate to us as part of your wedding celebrations? Contact fundraising@bristolarc.org.uk to find out more.

We’re proud to announce that our Volunteer Co-Ordinator Edd Grinham has been nominated for a BBC Make A Difference Award.

These awards show recognition and appreciation for people who make life better for others in their areas. Edd was nominated in the key worker category and is one of four nominees shortlisted from hundreds of applications for his tireless work with our volunteers.

We have over 260 volunteers within the charity, without whom we wouldn’t be able to function, and Edd manages and inspires them all on a daily basis. In particular, his work with a volunteer experiencing young onset Alzheimer’s was considered worthy of recognition by the judges.

You’ll be able to hear Edd’s story on BBC Radio Bristol over the next few weeks, and all the nominees will be featured across BBC regional news both online and on TV in the coming weeks.

When we told him about his nomination, Edd said, “I’m utterly speechless! From my point of view, I was just doing my job, which I enjoy very much – I really didn’t think I’d be nominated for an award for it, but I am very humbled and very grateful to be in the company of some really wonderful people who have been nominated for this”.

Anna O’Dell, Fundraising & Communications Manager, said, “We couldn’t be more proud of Edd. He’s a lynchpin of the team here and his efforts with all our volunteers – and in particular those who might be struggling for one reason or another – is exemplary. He really embodies the caring and compassionate values of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre”.

The winners will be announced in a special ceremony in Weston-Super-Mare on Friday 30th September.

A stray cat with a severe eye injury has found his happy ever after, thanks to care from our team.

Mike Wazowski arrived here as a stray with one eye severely injured. He had completely lost his vision in that eye and was at risk of infection.

Our expert vet team got to work straight away, operating on the injured eye to avoid further injury. After the op, he was a different cat – he perked up significantly to the point where he was able to play and enjoy cuddles with his carers.

Mike has since been happily rehomed with a new owner who is giving him the love and attention he deserves and making sure his ongoing medical needs are met.

We’re so happy for Mike and it’s thanks to our wonderful supporters that we’re able to keep caring for injured animals like him.

When Martha arrived here as a stray kitten in February, she could barely stand. We discovered she had a condition called cerebellar hypoplasia (sometimes referred to as ‘wobbly cat syndrome’), which is a congenital brain defect that affects her balance. At first we weren’t sure if she would make it, but against the odds she has flourished under the care of our vet nurses, and she’s now doing a lot better.

This is a condition she will have to live with forever, but it can be managed and although she still has limitations in terms of her movement, she is able to play and enjoy life as a mostly indoor kitten.

She’s now found a happy new home with an experienced cat owner, Georgie, who is showering her with love and making sure her ongoing medical needs are met. We couldn’t be happier for Martha, and it’s thanks to our wonderful supporters that we’re able to continue caring for kittens like her.

Thinking about adopting a rabbit? Here’s what you need to know.

These furry creatures are a popular pet choice around the UK. Rabbits are highly intelligent and inquisitive and owning them can be very rewarding – but these intelligent animals also need proper care to stay healthy and happy. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about looking after rabbits and tips on how to keep them in tip top shape.

Rabbits come in variety of breeds, shapes and sizes and they usually live between eight to 12 years. Pet rabbits are related to wild European rabbit, and their biology and behaviour are very similar. It’s also good to remember that rabbits are sensitive animals and are best suited to quiet homes. Due to the time and care required for these animals, they do not make good starter pets for children. An adult should always be the primary carer and supervise children when interacting with them.

Where should rabbits live?
Rabbits are naturally sociable and prefer to live in pairs or compatible groups. They are also active animals, so they need space to run, jump, forage and dig. It’s really important to make sure you have housing that meets your rabbits’ complex environmental and behavioural needs.

The minimum size of living area you’ll need for a pair of rabbits will be at least three metres x two metres x one metre, but the bigger the better! The accommodation should include a sheltered area and a permanently attached area for them to exercise in. It should be kept in a cool, dry, draught-free and well-ventilated area. If kept outdoors, rabbits need to be protected from predators, extreme weather and temperature. Rabbits kept indoors need a rabbit-proof area – i.e. a place with all wires and cables covered and any toxic plants removed. You can also cover furniture to protect it from teeth and claws.

Make sure they’ve got appropriate bedding and check it on daily. Several areas for toileting and feeding should be provided as rabbits are natural foragers and often go to the toilet while they are foraging for food. Litter trays should be big enough for your rabbit to turn around comfortably in, and filled with suitable litter such as wood or paper based, with a layer of hay on top. Remember to always provide the same number of feeding and toileting areas per rabbit, plus one extra.

What equipment do rabbits need?
Rabbits are most active during dawn, dusk and overnight, so they need access to their exercise area at all times. They’ll need plenty of suitable toys for mental stimulation and to wear down their teeth. You can encourage your rabbits to practice their natural chewing behaviour by giving them safe things to chew, such as apple and willow wood sticks. Rabbits also enjoy tubes to run through and hide in, as well as things they can move, such as toilet paper rolls, small empty cardboard cartons, and small piles of shredded paper, or air filled balls. You can hide treats in their toys to encourage foraging behaviour.

Platforms and hiding areas are essential for rabbits as they would naturally need to view their territory from a vantage point and hide from anything they feel threatened by.

What do rabbits eat?
Around 80% of your rabbits’ diet should be made up from good quality hay grass, so make sure they have constant access to it as they need to graze throughout the day. You can also give them good quality pellets once a day – a large tablespoon is enough. Muesli style food should be avoided as they promote selective feeding and are made up from unhealthy ingredients that provide very little nutrition.

Contrary to popular belief, carrots are not the best vegetable you can provide your rabbits as they contain high levels of sugar. Instead, try giving them fresh leafy green vegetables such as, spring greens, kale, broccoli, cauliflower leaves, dandelions and fresh herbs. Small amounts of safe fruits and carrot can be given as a treat occasionally.

Fresh water should be provided every day. Always make sure your rabbits’ have access to ceramic water bowls, as this will encourage a more natural way for them to drink and prevent them from taking in too much air from water bottles. Bottles are good for travel and as a back-up.

May is National Walking Month, so we’re challenging our supporters to walk 7,000 meters to help raise money for the vulnerable animals that we help, heal and home every year.

Robin Hill, who has been volunteering with us over a decade, decided to take on the challenge with Banksy the dog, and was accompanied by Animal Care Team members Kai and Kaya (pictured above) for the day. In fact, they ended up walking 9k around Bristol Harbourside, taking in some Bristol’s most famous landmarks, including M Shed, SS Great Britain, and even a Banksy mural nearby.

“Banksy loves to meet people and he had lots of cuddles along the way, with many passers-by stopping to tell us how handsome he is,” said Robin.

If you’re keen to follow in Banksy’s footsteps, it’s not too late to take on the challenge. Here’s what you need to do:
Pick your route
Get your friends and family to sponsor you up to £140
Download your fundraising pack here
Get walking!

Every penny raised will go towards caring for the thousands of animals we care for at the Centre every year. Good luck!

With the UK now among the bookies’ favourites to win the Eurovision Song Contest this year, the dogs at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre have created a unique message of ‘sup-paw-t’ for UK hopeful Sam Ryder.

The dogs at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre have recorded a special video in honour of UK Eurovision contestant Sam Ryder, featuring the dogs giving the UK 12 points.

The UK has had a ‘ruff’ time at Eurovision in recent decades and last year scored the dreaded ‘nul points’. The video offers a message of hope for UK fans, saying: “We know what it’s like to be the underdog. Hoping. Waiting. But we still believe in happily ever after tails!”

The soundtrack features an original song called ‘Dogs in Space’, inspired by Sam’s space themed track, with a few added barks for good measure.

The band of dogs, who’ve been styled ‘Bow-wowie’ in honour of pop’s original ‘space man’ David Bowie, had a little help from Bristol based musician and producer Karl Sadler, of Obelisk Music to create the track.

It’s accompanied by a video edited by Eurovision fan Ryan Booth, featuring rescue dogs from the Centre. The video ends with an appeal to donate at bristolarc.org.uk to support the shelter’s vulnerable animals.

The charity helps, heals and homes thousands of vulnerable animals every year and relies almost entirely on public support to keep its doors open.

Gina Jones, Marketing & Communications Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue said: “For many UK Eurovision fans – myself included – it seemed like it was a lost cause. But here at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, we know a little something about second chances. All the animals we care for are here because someone gave up on them – but we’re here to make sure they get their happily ever after in a new home. So as well as giving Sam our support, this message is also about the importance of not giving up! We hope that lots of Eurovision fans will be inspired by that and will consider donating to help our animals”.

Karl Sadler, musician and producer at Obelisk Music, said: “When I was approached by Bristol Animal Rescue Centre to create music out of dog sounds, I thought it sounded barking mad, but being a dog lover (and proud rescue dog owner) myself, I leapt at the opportunity to support a worthwhile cause! We’re all really pleased with the result and we hope that everyone will enjoy it”.

Ryan Booth, Eurovision fan and producer of the video, said: “I’ve been a Eurovision fan for many years and have made fan videos in the past, but this was a chance to do something fun and unique and hopefully help some animals that really need it in the process. It’s the ‘leashed’ I could do!”

“Whatever happens for the UK at Eurovision this year, it will hopefully engage more people with our cause and inspire all the dog lovers out there to vote for the UK if they can! Anything is paw-sible!” added Gina.

Following the news that over a million cats in the UK remain unneutered, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is helping local pet owners on low incomes get access to low cost neutering.

There has been an unprecedented increase in cat breeding recently, with over a million cats still unneutered, according to statistics from the RSPCA.

There are around 12.5 million cats in the UK, and on average 91% are neutered each year. During the pandemic these figures dropped to 86% in 2020 and while the numbers are starting to rise again, this means there still over a million unneutered cats in the UK.

The pandemic is partly to blame, with an increase in demand for pets coupled with difficulties accessing veterinary care. Waiting lists for routine procedures such a neutering grew following successive lockdowns, which may have resulted in unwanted litters being born. This, in turn, puts pressure on rescue charities like ours.

There are nearly a quarter of a million stray cats living in urban areas of the UK – or around 9.3 per square kilometre – according to a recent study. The high numbers of strays are mainly concentrated in poorer areas, noted the report. This may be made up of accidental litters and cats being abandoned or straying from home, who then support themselves by scavenging on human food waste. The authors noted that barriers to neutering, especially during the pandemic, are pushing up stray populations. Last year Bristol Animal Rescue Centre took in 296 cats and neutered over 400.

In response to the crisis, the Centre is offering low cost cat neutering for eligible cat owners who are on low incomes in the Bristol area, as part of a campaign that was originally launched during lockdown.

Under this scheme, we offer cat castrations for £30 and cat spays for £45 to eligible pet owners in Bristol.

Full details and terms and conditions can be found on the low cost cat neutering page here.

“On average, we neuter about 40 cats a month at the moment. We are here to support low income pet owners in Bristol and ensure that no cat gets left behind,” said Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

A dog who was found straying in Bristol and underwent multiple surgeries before being adopted is now being featured in an advertising campaign for a local brewery.

Flora, a one-year old Boston Terrier arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in early 2021 after being found as a stray, with a complicated fracture to her right front leg. Her injury meant she was unable to use the leg at all and faced a risk of long-term mobility issues. The charity launched an appeal to fund surgery on her elbow joint on this leg, as it was quite an unusual injury and required a specialist orthopaedic surgeon to do the operation.

Following a successful surgery, Flora underwent a course of physiotherapy so she could learn how to use her leg at last.

It was also discovered that Flora had a breed defect called macorpalpebral fissure euryblepharon, meaning that her eyelids didn’t cover her eyes properly. This left her with very prominent eyes that were prone to exposure and damage. Once again a fundraising appeal was launched and she received treatment for this, before she was put up for rehoming.

She was eventually adopted by Vikki Carter and her family, from nearby Brislington.

Vikki said, “Flora has settled in really well, she is enjoying finally being a puppy and has been on lots of adventures. She has made lots of dog friends at the local park and is a very happy social puppy. She makes us laugh every day with her funny personality and quirks.

“Her favourite place is on the sofa for cuddles when she is not trying to steal our shoes! After having been through such a lot, I love seeing her thrive and learn new things every day. She is very much loved and we are so glad she is part of our family”.

Dr Damian Pacini, Principal Vet at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, said, “After a rough start in life, Flora is now living the life she truly deserves with adopters who understand her ongoing health requirements”.

Flora finds fame

Vikki was so proud of Flora that she entered her into the Dog Day Afternoon competition, launched by local brewery Lost & Grounded. The company was looking for dogs to feature on its new beer can designs and Flora was one of six dogs eventually chosen. The new beer, which launches for the first time this weekend, is a Kölsch, 4.8% Cologne-style ale.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that Flora is going to be featured on Lost & Grounded’s beer can designs. I’m a very proud dog mummy right now,” said Vikki.

“It’s not often that one of our dogs becomes famous, but if anyone deserves to be recognised for everything they’ve been through, it’s Flora. She’s a very special pup and one that we’ll all remember here at the Rescue Centre for a long time,” said Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Annie Clements, Co-Founder of Lost & Grounded Brewery, said: “We are thrilled that Flora was able to enter our dog beer label competition and after we heard her story we were really touched. She’s certainly a trooper! The main reason for making this beer was to raise awareness of the welfare and care of our pets and the importance of their company. Thank you, beautiful Flora, you are an absolute superstar!”

We recently waved off Lulu the Rottweiler, who was adopted after spending a whopping 558 days in our care.

Lulu arrived in April 2020 with a history of abuse and, understandably, she had some emotional issues as a result of her past experiences.

“When Lulu arrived in our care she struggled with meeting new people, especially men,” explained our Senior Behaviourist Zita Polgar. “She didn’t know how to react when she found herself near strangers and would sometimes bark or lunge at them.

“Lulu’s carers spent a lot of time with her playing ‘the friendship game’, which is a technique we use as a predictable way for our dogs to learn that strangers aren’t always scary and that she could trust her carer’s reactions to judge whether or not unfamiliar people are safe to interact with. After lots of practice, she is now able to meet new people safely and calmly in this context”.

During her time in our care, Lulu also needed work on her reactivity towards other dogs. Lulu has made a lot of progress and is now able to walk past dogs calmly at a distance. Lulu has also had muzzle training to comfortably wear a muzzle on her walks, just in case an unexpected off-lead dog startles her, as she is not yet ready to meet dogs up close. Her new family are continuing this training.

Since she’d been here for so long, many of the team got to know Lulu and while we’re absolutely thrilled that she finally has the loving home she deserves, we’re all sad to see her go.

“I miss her already! She has come so far in the last two years and I couldn’t be more proud of her,” said Kadie, who was one of her carers.

“Her adopters have been incredibly committed, visiting her over a period of four months while we have been preparing her for the transition. Her life has completely turned around and now she’s going to have a wonderful future with two people who absolutely adore her.

“Lulu Bean, you have touched so many hearts been a joy to work with. We will miss you but we’re so glad there’s been happy ending for such a special girl!”

We’re pleased to announce that Bristol Animal Rescue Centre fundraiser Henry Wellesley and our Principal Vet Dr Damian Pacini have now completed the Marathon des Sables, the world’s toughest foot race. Henry has raised over £2,000 (including Gift Aid) so far to help the vulnerable animals in our care.

The Marathon des Sables, which ended today, is 250km challenge that takes place over seven days at temperatures up to about 50°C. In addition to the testing conditions, runners camped in the desert, carrying all their food and equipment on their backs throughout the race.

Henry finished the race in 55 hours, 32 minutes and 10 seconds, and Damian in 39 hours, 29 minutes and 10 seconds.

Henry was inspired to take on the challenge after adopting his dog Zara from us. After completing the grueling race, Henry told us, “Well, I made it to the end! Sadly, my trainers were not so lucky. My feet are in bits but it was an incredible experience”.

Damian said, “We’re both so happy to have finished the race! Henry is a really committed supporter of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and he has really made me appreciate the strength of feeling and support we get from people who adopt pets with us. It’s quite humbling to talk to someone who thinks so much of what we do. He absolutely smashed it!”

“We’re absolutely in awe of Henry and Damian’s achievements this week! They’ve done what, to most of us, would be impossible. What’s more, Henry has raised more than £2,000 for the animals in our care, which will make a huge difference and give many more animals a second chance at a happy life. We want to say a big well done and thank you,” said Anna O’Dell, Fundraising & Communications Manager.

A Bristol woman will be jumping 15,000ft from an aeroplane this weekend in aid of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Tilly Bryant, from Brislington, was inspired to take on the challenge by her step-dad Phil, who suffers from young onset Alzheimer’s and has been volunteering at the animal charity since Christmas.

Phil, aged 57, was diagnosed last October and was forced to retire from his job at a local recycling centre, as well as having to return his driving licence. His condition had been worsening over the last two years, and became most noticeable during lockdown.

His wife Nicky explained, “Phil has always been a cheerful, independent person and we noticed over quite a long period that his personality had started to change. He began to forget things and didn’t seem like himself. During lockdown, with the lack of routine, this worsened, before he was finally diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s. At first he became withdrawn and he was very down – after losing his job he felt a lack of purpose”.

Day to day life became more difficult for the family, as Phil was unable to complete some of the most basic tasks at home, and routine trips like visiting his son in Ireland became more difficult. “Travelling became trickier for Phil because his reaction times are slower now, it takes him a while to adjust to situations and people don’t understand his condition – he is still young, after all, and this is a hidden disability. People might wonder why he might appear to be dithering or taking longer to do things, for example,” added Nicky.

Giving back to the community
Phil had always loved animals and so Nicky decided to contact Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, to see if he might be able to volunteer, to give him something to do and a chance to give back to the local community.

Since December he has been volunteering two days per week with the charity, doing routine tasks like laundry and cleaning, as well as cat socialisation.

“We’ve all seen a massive change in him since he started there – he’s regained his confidence,” said Tilly. “This has given him more of a routine and a reason to get up in the morning. It also means he has a bit of independence from us and when he comes home, he has something new to talk to the family about”.

“We couldn’t be more grateful to the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre team for offering Phil this opportunity – it’s not always easy, and I know having a volunteer like him means certain adjustments need to be made, but they’ve revived a bit of the old Phil that we hadn’t seen in a long time, so we are very grateful,” said Nicky.

Young onset dementia
“There are support services out there for people with Alzheimer’s, but a lot of these are more geared towards older people, and Phil doesn’t see himself as an old man,” said Nicky.

Over 42,000 people in the UK are living with young onset dementia (which develops before the age of 65). Like all people with dementia, they may experience a wide range of symptoms, but they are likely to need different support than older people.

“We’re delighted that Phil chose to volunteer with Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. We haven’t had a volunteer like Phil before and it’s a learning process for all of us, but he’s been a big help to the team and we’re pleased that we’ve been able to give him a bit of confidence back,” said Edd Grinham, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

Tilly’s big jump
This Sunday, Phil’s step-daughter Tilly will be taking the plunge at GoSkydive in Salisbury, jumping 15,000ft in a freefall skydive. She has set a fundraising target of £800 (she’s currently on £665).

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Angharad and her family adopted Teddy, a seven-year-old brindle staffy, five years ago, and says he’s transformed their lives for the better – offering them a sense of focus during lockdown and beyond.

How did you come to adopt Teddy?
We decided to adopt a pet about five years ago. Having previously lived in flats, we weren’t able to adopt a dog up until that point but once we had a dog friendly home we started looking into it. We went in with the aim of finding a a small, easy going, low maintenance, unassuming dog and came out with ‘The Bear’! He had been there such a long that we could not leave him without a place to call his own.

What were your first impressions after adopting Teddy?
He just wanted to be loved and he was determined to see if he could ‘out-love’ us! It’s pretty intense – we are a very close knit family now.

Can you tell us a bit about Teddy’s personality?
Teddy’s personality is cheeky to say the least, especially when there is food around! He is hugely emotionally intelligent and he is the cuddliest dog ever. He sits like a human, puts one paw around my neck and one around my front and makes me cradle him while watching TV! All his quirkiness just puts a smile on my face.

How has having Teddy in your life improved your mental wellbeing? Are there any things you are doing differently now?
Teddy has had a real positive impact on our mental health. It doesn’t matter how hard a day you’ve had, as soon as he jumps all over you, you quickly remember what is important. He made lockdown much easier as we had a purpose and a focus each day – to make sure that we were all well exercised. We didn’t particularly like Sundays ‘BB’ (Before Bear) – that wait for your weekend to be over and to start the weekly grind again could be depressing – but we now go out, put him in the car and go on road trips. It makes Sundays far more enjoyable.

How do you think you’d be feeling/coping if you didn’t have Teddy?
I worry about how upset I am going to be when I have to let him go over the rainbow bridge – I know it will happen one day and I can’t bear to think about how upset I know I will be, but I’d like to think that in time we’d pick ourselves up and help another dog in need of rescue. I think what I am saying is that now we have him, not to have him would cause a void in our lives.

What would you say to people who are struggling with mental health/wellbeing and are perhaps considering getting a pet?

I’d say absolutely, do it! They will give you far more back that you can imagine.

Members of the Animal Care Team at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre will be spending the night inside a dog kennel block to help raise vital funds to build a dog sensory garden at the Centre.

Five Animal Care Assistants will be ‘ruffing’ it by sleeping inside a newly refurbished kennel block in a bid to raise at least £150 towards the Centre’s dog sensory garden appeal.

Team members Georgia, Kadie, Ted, Kaya and Kelly will each spend the night in a kennel later this week and have set up a JustGiving fundraiser for supporters to sponsor their efforts.

“Many of the dogs who are taken into our care have come from difficult circumstances. They’re trying to adjust to a sudden and dramatic change in their circumstances. They might be in pain from a medical condition they’ve not yet been treated for. They’re in an unfamiliar environment with people they have never seen before. They arrive scared and stressed,” explained Anna O’Dell, Fundraising & Communications Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“While our team do all they can to help our animals feel comfortable and happy while they’re here, kennels are a stressful environment for them. Beyond their daily walks and enrichment activity, they need a space to relax, which is why we need to create this dog sensory garden,” she added.

The kennels have recently been refurbished, so as well as raising funds for the garden, the team view this as a sort of test run before any dogs are put in there.

“We are passionate about caring for these dogs and want to make sure they have the best conditions possible,” explained Georgia, Assistant Animal Behaviour Support. “If it’s good enough for us to sleep in, it’ll be good for the dogs – so we’re going to do this for them, and also to help raise money for this dog sensory garden, which will have such a positive impact on their day-to-day lives”.

Why a dog sensory garden?
Dog sensory gardens reduce stress and anxiety and encourage dogs to feel more secure in their surroundings by using different smells, textures, sounds and tastes.

With a little bit of dog-friendly landscaping, we can help decrease their boredom and encourage more of their natural behaviours. We’d like to create an area like this on our site, one that is specifically designed to offer stimulation and enrichment for our dogs.

This project will cost us around £13,000 to bring to life, and an online appeal has been launched to help raise the funds. The kennel sleepover is just one of many fundraising efforts over the next few months that will contribute to this target.

“Our team are passionate about caring for these animals, many of whom have been through a lot before they arrive here. By creating this garden, we hope to ease their anxieties and give more dogs a second chance at a happy life,” said Anna.

We’re delighted to have received a grant from Petplan Charitable Trust towards our outreach clinics.

The trust has awarded us £10,000 to continue our vital outreach work in Bristol.

As well as helping, healing and homing animals at our Rescue Centre on Albert Road, we currently run two outreach clinics in Lawrence Weston and Knowle West where we offer free access to veterinary care for pet owners on lower incomes/benefits.

Last year alone, our outreach clinics helped 3,000 animals and their families in Bristol. This vital service means we can keep more families together by enabling those facing hardship to hang onto their pets and care for them at home.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have received this much needed grant towards our outreach work. It will make a huge difference to the services we can provide and the number of families we are able to support in Bristol,” said Anna O’Dell, Fundraising & Communications Manager for Bristol Animal Rescue Centre.

“We want to say a big thank you to Petplan Charitable Trust and all their supporters for your kindness. This really will do the world of good for animals and their owners in Bristol”.

Founded in 1994, the Petplan Charitable Trust (PCCT) has a simple mission to promote the health and welfare of animals in the UK and beyond. Funding comes from the generosity of pet owners, who can opt to give a small donation to the Trust when they take out or renew a policy with Petplan.

Thinking about adopting a degu? These sociable little rodents make fantastic pets but only if you know how to care for them the right way. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about caring for degus, plus some tips to keep them healthy and happy.

Degus are native to northern and central Chile and in the wild, these small but vocal rodents are typically found living at high elevations (1,200m) in the Andes mountain range. They usually live in groups and spend their days digging and chewing. Like us, they’re active during the day and sleep at night.

Where should degus live?
Their housing should be large enough for them to carry out all their natural behaviours including running, jumping, climbing, chewing, dustbathing, digging and nesting, as well as eating, drinking and toileting. The space should include several wooden or metal platforms, food bowls for hay and pellets, water bottle, suitable chew toys and accessories and suitable bedding material. Remember to avoid cages with plastic trays and platforms.

Minimum cage dimensions for one or two degus are 75cms wide x 90cms high x 45cms deep. If you plan to have more than two degus, they would definitely appreciate bigger space. It’s also good to keep in mind that enclosures should be placed in a cool area, away from any radiators or other heat sources.

Degus can get frightened from movements above them, so providing a solid roof can help them to feel more secure and avoid placing their enclosure at ground level. Their main predators in the wild are birds of prey, so placing enclosures at waist height, on a shelf or table may be less stressful for your degus. Degus should also have constant access to hay filled nest boxes to rest, sleep or hide in case they feel afraid or just want to be alone. Degus enjoy a dust bath at least twice a week, so be sure to leave a shallow tray filled with clean fine sand or dust for them.

What equipment should you provide for a degu?
Degus are very active rodents and require plenty of space to exercise. Branches made from safe wood (e.g. pear, apple, beech) and platforms at different levels will allow them to climb and jump from one to another. A stable rock formation can also offer a great opportunity for climbing. In the wild they will naturally climb onto the branches of shrubs and small trees. Degus also love to run on wheels, so don’t forget to provide a metal or wooden wheel with a minimum 12-inch diameter to keep them active.

What do degus eat?
It’s important to feed your degus a balanced diet of a complete degu pellets and good quality timothy hay, to help keep their teeth worn down. Degus are susceptible to diabetes, so give treats very sparingly. A small measured portion of degu nuggets and some leafy vegetables should also be part of their daily diet.

Compared to some other rodents, degus in the wild consume large amounts of fibre and they should have constant access to good quality hay. Hay is much more important than commercial degu nuggets and should constitute the majority of their diet.

It is important to provide degus constant access to fresh drinking water, ideally from a drinking bottle, as without it they become seriously ill. Do not forget to check the water bottle daily for leaks and/or blockages, and clean the bottle and nozzle properly to avoid contamination.

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Caroline adopted Robin and Tobias from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre last July. Their adoption came at a very difficult time in her life that saw her struggle with not only contracting Covid, but also a period of depression. Caring for them has given her a renewed sense of focus and love into her life, she says.

How did you come to adopt Robin and Tobias?
I had always looked after other people’s pets and I had spare room and felt I could give time and care to an animal. I have a soft spot for animals that people can’t handle and, after reading a story about rat litters being abandoned, I felt sad. I’d looked after someone else’s rats years ago and knew they were nice pets, but I didn’t feel comfortable buying them from a breeder. While there are plenty of ethical breeders and loving owners out there, there are also a lot of people trying to get rid of unwanted rats on the internet because they get them without researching all that is involved.

Were there any aspects of your wellbeing that you struggled with before getting your pets?
Adopting Robin and Tobias massively improved my mental health. The time that I adopted them coincided with some really horrible things happening at work which led to me experiencing, what was with hindsight, bad bouts of depression. There were days when I only managed to face the world because these two tiny creatures relied on me to look after them and I think their need for a play and feeding routine kept me going. I don’t think I realised how bad my mental health was until I adopted them.

I also got Covid not long after I adopted them and they were my only real world contact for seven days. (They were scared of me for the three days I had symptoms). Mainly I didn’t expect to love them as unconditionally or as quickly as I did.

What were your first impressions after taking them home?
They were well behaved from the beginning, but I fell in love with them so quickly that I became filled with anxiety that I would hurt them through negligence or ignorance. They were so tiny and so fast, I ended up paying for an expensive vet visit to confirm there was nothing wrong with them. I soon realised I had to trust them and myself more. This was still going on after four or five months and the vet said they were healthy – they were just larger rat gentlemen, so I started to realise my thinking wasn’t rational and they were fine.

What are their personalities like and how does that affect you?
Tobias is exactly as people expect pet rats to be – he is friendly, affectionate and a bit naughty. He is very robust so I tend to ‘juggle’ him more. Robin can be very sweet, but it has to be on his terms. He is really good at climbing and jumping and I have seen him show Tobias how to climb things. At first I felt really bad that Robin didn’t like me stroking him or picking him up, but as I have relaxed about this, he has become more affectionate. I think it’s important to recognise that animals may not love you straight away and you may have to show patience and give them affection on their terms, not yours. What I always find heart-warming is just how much they love each other.

How has having them improved your mental wellbeing? Are there any things you are doing differently now?

I plan time to clean, feed and play with Robin and Tobias each day and that gives me focus. I enjoy buying them toys and allowing loads of time to play with them. I don’t drink alcohol when I still have to let them out and play because their little feet look so fragile I worry about being unstable, so I think it’s improved my health too.

How do you think you’d be feeling/coping if you didn’t have them?
Sometimes I can’t remember what it was like before I had them. I look forward to the time in the evening when they wake up, and we all get up really early in the morning – them naturally and me for work, so it’s nice to have a little time chasing after them in the mornings. I purposely don’t do anything else but play with them, which has been really good as it takes me away from the internet or stressing over things I can’t change. They are clever so I have to watch them carefully or they will outsmart me.

What would you say to other people who are struggling with mental health/wellbeing and are perhaps considering getting a pet?
If you are certain you have the time and the love to give, it is really beneficial. You have to accept there will be good days and bad days as animals have moods too. I’d also say routine is really important for both the person and the animal(s) in terms of making it practical to look after them, but for me this made me feel more grounded. The internet is a good source of information, but with male rats a lot of blogs focus on the negatives which you might not experience. Do your research though and make sure you can commit.

Thinking about adopting a chinchilla? These furry creatures make great pets, but not everyone knows how to care for them properly. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about looking after chinchillas, plus some tips to keep them healthy and happy.

Chinchillas are quiet, clean and athletic rodents (they can jump over six feet!), and they can live for between 10-20 years. They have a tendency to be quite shy, so they’re more likely to feel comfortable in a home with adults or older children. These soft-furred animals are also nocturnal, which means they are most active in the evening and at night. Chinchillas are also very social – in the wild they live in colonies of over 100.

Where should chinchillas live?
Originating from mountainous areas in South America chinchillas are used to cool, cold and dry climates. They don’t like hot, wet, humid, draughty or dirty conditions and should therefore be kept indoors in well-ventilated, dry and draught-free housing, ideally between 10-18ºC.

Chinchillas are easily stressed, so they would feel the most comfortable in quiet and calm spaces, away from other pets and noisy areas. They need constant access to hay-filled nest boxes to rest and sleep, and a hiding space when they feel afraid. It is important, however, not to provide nesting materials that separate into thin strands, (cotton wool or similar ‘fluffy’ bedding products), as they may pose a serious risk to their health.

The minimum dimensions for the cage for one or two chinchillas are 90cms wide x 90cms high x 45cms deep, however, the more space you can provide, the happier your chinchilla will be. It would be also good if the cage had an alternative flooring (like solid wood), as spending long periods of time on wire mesh can harm their feet.

Chinchilla cages should be cleaned regularly so urine and droppings don’t accumulate. Many cages have trays underneath a mesh floor to collect waste.

What equipment should you provide for a chinchilla?
As they’re very active creatures, chinchillas need lots of exercise space. Solid wooden or metal platforms at different levels, both vertical and horizontal, offer a great space for them to jump and run – but avoid cages with plastic trays and platforms. Any toys should be made from wood, rope or cardboard. Chinchillas also love a dust bath at least twice a week, so if you leave a shallow tray filled with clean fine sand (or chinchilla dust) in the cage they’ll be happy as a clam.

What do chinchillas eat?
Chinchillas teeth grow constantly, so they need a diet that will help wear their teeth down. Make sure your chinchilla has a balanced diet of a complete chinchilla pellets and good quality timothy hay. You may also want to offer them healthy treats occasionally, such as dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, bananas or apples) but these are high in sugar so only give them out sparingly. Fresh drinking water should also be provided and available at all times, ideally from a water bottle. Don’t forget to also check the water bottle daily for leaks and/or blockages and change their water regularly and clean the bottle and nozzle properly to avoid contamination.

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing.Ten-year-old Freya and her family adopted Sooty a year ago and she’s already had a huge impact on their lives, bringing calm to the house and giving Freya a newfound sense of responsibility.

How did you come to adopt Sooty?
Sooty is five years old and we’ve had her about a year now. Her previous owner was elderly and had been unable to care for her anymore and so she needed a new home to go to. We really like cats and I had always wanted to adopt a cat, so we were happy to take her in.

What were your first impressions after adopting Sooty?
After we adopted Sooty I felt very excited to look after her. It made me feel special as I was responsible for her. She was like a little sister to me so I wanted to make sure she was ok and settled in with us.

What is Sooty’s personality like?
Sooty is a real character! She is very affectionate and snuggles up with me on the sofa. She can be very funny when she sees any birds outside and it makes me laugh! She has made an impact on me by always wrapping herself around me and she is always there to make me feel happy.

How has having Sooty improved your wellbeing?
Having Sooty has made me feel a lot calmer and her presence is very comforting. It is like a warm hug on a cold day. Sooty has helped my wellbeing because I have to run around when I’m playing with her and I am always excited and very energised around her. Now that I have Sooty, I am exercising more and am more awake. I feel very proud that I am helping to raise her. I can always hear her purr and it feels great to know that I am making an animal happy.

How do you think you’d be feeling if you didn’t have Sooty?
If I didn’t have Sooty I think I would feel a bit lonely and the house would feel a bit empty. She is such a big part of my life and nothing would be the same without her.

What would you say to other people who are considering adopting a pet?
Having a pet makes your house feel more homely and it brightens up your mood. They will make you feel happy and comforted and you will feel loved. It feels like having a best friend!

We’re honoured to have received a particularly generous legacy from Shayne Kidner, pictured here with his beloved dog Harvey.

Shayne grew up around farming, which is where his love and connection to animals began. Zoe the Lakeland terrier (pictured below) was his first dog and he adored her, and as an adult, he went on to rescue Harvey the lurcher.

Shayne chose to leave a substantial gift in his Will to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, and we’re so grateful for this incredible benevolence, which will enable us to continue helping, healing and homing thousands of animals a year.

Shayne’s memory will live on at our Animal Home and Clinic, and we’ll remember his name and his extraordinary generosity for years to come.

Thank you to Shayne, as well as his family for their kindness.

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Henry and his family adopted a German Shepherd called Zara from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and, as well as bringing joy back into their lives after the loss of their previous dog, she’s also inspired Henry to take on an incredible new challenge…

How did you come to adopt Zara?
Our previous German Shepherd, whom we had also adopted, had just died so we decided to visit Bristol Animal Rescue Centre to distract us from our grief. Honestly, I had no intention of adopting another dog in that moment, as I was still raw from the loss, but once we’d met her, we knew we had to give her a home.

What were your first impressions after adopting Zara?
Zara had been a stray, so she was a little nervous at first. When we first brought her home, she was very lively doing figures of eight around the garden for 40 minutes. She would also flinch when we went to stroke her. In the first week she ate through five leads, so we switched to a chain lead for six months. All she cared about was breaking free. Once we had gained her trust, that all changed and now she is very settled with us.

What is Zara’s personality like?
She is very loving at home and with our friends whom she trusts, but she still cannot be touched by people she doesn’t know. She’s still very untrusting of strangers, so if we take her out to a café or bar we still have to muzzle her for her own safety.

At home though, she is the perfect pet and a creature of habit. At 5pm on the dot she will come and find me and demand her tea. She is also very cheeky as she has sussed out that if she has taken something she shouldn’t have, such as a sock, she will be given a treat to return it. I tell her she is nothing more than an extortionist! She loves coming away with us in the camper van, although she does look a bit put out when she is told she must travel in the back. She basically thinks she is human and therefore makes herself comfortable on our bed and sofas.

How has having Zara improved your mental wellbeing? Are there any things you are doing differently now that you weren’t before?
The best thing is the enthusiasm she has for going for a walk – having a dog means you have to get out into the fresh air daily and that’s good for you. It’s also lovely how she greets us so happily when we return to the house – it’s nice to feel missed. She is also very good at defusing an argument by getting between us and bringing us a toy.

How do you think you’d be feeling if you didn’t have Zara?
Life would lose that simple joy, which we get from Zara when we chase her around the table or wrestle with her.

What would you say to people who are struggling with mental health/wellbeing and are perhaps considering getting a pet?
If you can, perhaps try to borrow one first – maybe offer to look after a friend’s pet while they are away, for example. They do bring great joy but having a dog is a big commitment and it will change your life in so many ways. We are very lucky in that Zara has a grandad who dotes on her, and who stays in our house when we are away. There’s a lot to think about when you adopt a dog, but at the same time it is a wonderful experience.

You’ve decided to take part in the Marathon de Sables to fundraise for Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Can you tell us a bit about that?
The Marathon des Sables is said to be the toughest race in the world and takes place annually in March/April. It involves running six marathons in seven days across the Sahara Desert in Morocco, where temperatures can reach 50 degrees.

Runners must carry all their food and clothing for the seven days. I am not a natural runner (I usually prefer to cycle), I don’t like camping in a tent and I’m not a big fan of sand, but a friend wanted to do it and I foolishly agreed to do it with him, as I had run a couple of slow marathons, which in retrospect wasn’t the best of reasons.

Training has been a challenge as I came off my bike in May and broke my shoulder, and in September I developed a shin splint, but now thankfully everything is back on track with ten weeks to go.

Adopting Zara really inspired me to do this. I wanted to fundraise for Bristol Animal Rescue Centre as a small way of thanking you for rescuing and looking after Zara, and for bringing her into our lives. The world would look very different without Zara in it, so we’re very grateful and want to pass our good luck on to other animals who might still be looking for a home.

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Marcella adopted an older dog, Olive, from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in 2018. Here, she tells us about how Olive changed her family’s lives irreversibly for the better.

Tell us about how you came to adopt Olive
We adopted Olive in August 2018. She was already an older girl at 13 years old but I just fell in love with her instantly. I loved everything about her, and I knew she needed to come home with me. I brought my mum and boyfriend to meet her at the rescue centre, we walked along the canal and before we got back we knew we would be signing adoption papers. She was just the perfect dog in every possible way, and she was so beautiful.

We had fairly recently bought a new house and my amazing mum agreed to be ‘doggy day care’ while we were at work so it was the perfect arrangement. Olive adored my mum and loved snuggling up on the sofa with her.

What were your first impressions after adopting Olive?
Being an older dog, Olive was quiet at the rescue centre, but when we brought her home she really came out of her shell. On the first afternoon, she ran around the whole house and garden, checking out every nook and cranny. She knew she had found her forever home. That night she settled down in her lovely new bed and snoozed the night away. Waking up to her was the best day ever.

How did having Olive improve your wellbeing?
Olive changed our lives forever. She was very gentle and had a really calming presence in the house. She was so wonderful to have around and just be with. I had to have an operation a few months after she came into our lives and she spent my recovery time with me on the sofa, snuggled up watching Netflix and drinking tea. She was a tremendous comfort and great company.

Adopting Olive meant that we discovered new places and new walks, which was undoubtedly wonderful for our fitness and health. This is something we loved doing, as she so loved to have a wander in the woods or at the arboretum. I bought walking boots and walking coats – something I never would have dreamed of buying before! She got us out in the fresh air, and it was a true gift.

What was Olive’s personality like and how did that affect you?
I know everybody says this, but Olive was truly the best dog in the world. She was loving and kind and just incredible. We adored everything about her. She was so precious to us. Olive wasn’t really interested in other dogs and would just walk past them, we enjoyed many weekends at Westonbirt and she enjoyed lots of holidays in the Cotswolds and Cornwall. She loved the beach!

She also adored my mum, dad and sister and enjoyed going to their houses and relaxing on their sofas. She was so, so spoilt and had the best of everything. I just wanted to make sure that she was happy and comfortable.

As Olive aged she started to require more care, we would carry her up the stairs and in and out of the car. We would lift her onto our bed where she would snooze in the sun. When she wanted to come down we would lift her down. We tried acupuncture and all sorts to help keep her limbs young but sadly time was catching up with her.

We knew at 13, we wouldn’t have her forever. In 11 months we filled in a whole lifetime of love. We made sure of it. The day we lost our girl was the hardest day of my life. I cried for weeks and felt a physical pain from her loss, but I’ll never forget the year we spent loving her. Now our walls and cabinets are filled with photos of her. A precious reminder of the beautiful light she brought into our lives, even if it was only for a short while.

How did Olive’s passing affect you?
When we lost Olive, we were crushed. I cried for weeks and felt a physical pain from her loss. She had become the best part of our day and life without her just felt too sad. In time, however, your life grows around the grief and you come to smile when you remember her and the time you spent together. I look over our photos and videos as a reminder of all that we did, and how much we loved each other. Olive was a gift sent to us and we will never stop missing her.

Now we have another staffy called Bluebell. A fun, mischievous, cheeky girl. The exact opposite of very calm Olive! She keeps us on our toes and is endlessly funny. She has Olive to thank for her coming to live with us (haha!) as we missed having paws around the house. I have always loved staffies and so when we looked for our second dog, there was no other choice.

What would you say to other people who are struggling with their wellbeing and are perhaps considering getting a pet?
Making the choice to get a pet, particularly a dog, is a huge one. Our lives revolve around our dogs and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ll never be able to explain how spoilt Olive was, and Bluebell is now! They are my babies. They have brought so much endless joy. Life wouldn’t be the same without them.

As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. ITV Westcountry reporter Charlotte Gay adopter her cat Mitzi in 2017 and, although her job means she’s frequently away from home, Mitzy has been a grounding influence for her.

Tell us about how you came to adopt Mitzi
My partner always knew we wanted to adopt a cat. I had grown up with a cat, whom I missed a lot when I went to university. When we bought our first home together, it seemed like the right time but we waited six months to settle in before visiting our nearest RSPCA shelter.

We went along fairly open minded about the kind of cat we would like. We hoped for a cat who would enjoy cuddles, but equally we both had full-time jobs, so we knew it would have to be a cat who didn’t mind being left alone during the day.

We joked we wouldn’t fall for the first cat we were introduced to but we both instantly bonded with Mitzi and, despite being told she was quite a nervous cat, she seemed to warm to us quickly.

What were your first impressions after adopting Mitzi?
After being told she was a nervous cat we were initially cautious not to overwhelm her when we brought her home, but something must have clicked because immediately she was walking all over us, purring and rubbing her face on us. It was truly lovely because we thought it was going to take a while for her to settle, but she was keen to get to know us as quickly as possible.

What is Mitzi’s personality like?
I grew up with a cat who liked to be both indoors and outdoors in equal measure, so I as adamant that we wouldn’t try to make Mitzi an indoor cat if that wasn’t what she wanted. Once we adopted her, however, we found that she does generally prefer to be inside about 90% of the time. She can be nervous about meeting new people, so if friends come round and want to meet her, they usually have to sit quietly next to her at first. It takes a while for others to earn her trust and she keeps to herself when larger groups come over.

Working from home has probably made Mitzi needier – she now expects us to be around more and enjoys the extra attention. It’s not always helpful when you’re working to a deadline, but it’s lovely to feel wanted!

How has adopting Mitzi helped your mental wellbeing?
She certainly makes you think of what kind of energy you bring into a room because if you are rushing around or making loud noises she’ll bolt up the stairs and out of the way. If I am ever feeling unwell or don’t get out of bed quickly, she will stay next to me for hours. Whenever I hear her purrs building up it makes me feel good to know I’m making a little creature I love happy too.

How do you think you’d be feeling and coping with life if you didn’t have Mitzi?
During successive lockdowns my partner and I had to live/work away from home at different times, which could often be hard. Having Mitzi for company when he was away, and equally having her to come back to when I had to go away, was wonderful. She’s like our rock. When I think of home I think of wherever she is – she makes me feel at ease. As she is such an indoorsy cat, if one of us comes back from work, or a trip, she’s the first to welcome us with a loud purr and wrapping her tail around our legs.

What would you say to other people who are perhaps considering getting a pet?
A pet can be an instant best friend. Having a loving pet at home who will always be happy to see you makes you feel loved – they will always boost your mood. The great thing about adopting a rescue pet is that you’re giving an animal that maybe hasn’t the best start a second chance at a happy life and they are all the more loving and grateful for it.

As part of a new campaign this year, we launched a survey asking adopters how getting a pet has improved their wellbeing. The results were fascinating and proved that by adopting an animal you’re not just changing their life – you could actually be improving your own too.

It’s been a challenging couple of years for us all as we’ve collectively dealt with a public health crisis, successive lockdowns and threats to our physical and mental wellbeing.

It was clear from our survey that many of us are feeling more anxious than we did two years ago – 43% of people who responded to our survey* said they were more worried since the start of the pandemic and lockdown in March 2020. More than a third (36%) said they were less calm, and 30% said they were less happy than before.

It’s not all bad news, however – owning a pet was proven to be a balm for our anxious souls over the last few years.

More than 70% of people who responded to our survey who had suffered from mental health issues including depression and anxiety said that having a pet helped to alleviate their condition.

It’s not just mental wellbeing that’s been improved by pet ownership. Of the 70% of people questioned who said they suffered from a physical health condition, nearly all (69.5%) said owning a pet actually helped them to feel better physically too.

One pet owner who responded to the survey said, “I have a Jack Russell/chihuahua cross and he’s a delight. I have arthritis and don’t always feel like going out, but because of him I have to and feel much better for it”.

Another confided, “My daughter says our cat has saved us. She has autism and having a cat calms her and helps to reduce her anxiety. The cat is great company when I’m on my own – some days I wouldn’t speak to anyone if I’m working from home”.

Those without major medical or mental wellbeing issues nevertheless reported an overall calm that comes with having pets, “looking after them stops me overthinking,” said one respondent.

Agatha is a mature lady lurcher, at the grand old age of 11. She came to us in September after being found straying and she was in a terrible state. Our team faced a number of challenges with her health, but after a great deal of loving care, she’s found a new lease of life.

Agatha arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre with a huge mammary tumour, major dental issues and was in poor bodily condition.

Our veterinary team performed multiple surgeries on her mammary area, including the removal of her large tumour. She also underwent extensive dental work to sort out major issues with her teeth, which were causing her significant pain.

She’s now healed and the transformation in her has been incredible to watch. She’s gone from a scared, shy girl in so much pain, to a loving, cuddly dog.

Watch the video to find out more about Agatha’s story

WARNING: there are some distressing images, but the story does have a happy ending.

As part of a new campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. Sarah and George adopted their dog, Winslow, an American bulldog, from us and, as well as giving him a second chance, it’s also given them both a new lease of life. Here, Sarah tells us how he has settled in.

Tell us about how you came to adopt Winslow
George and I had dreamt of adopting a dog together from the very start of our relationship. We had done dogsitting for friends who had bulldogs before, so we knew what loyal and loving companions they can be. It saddened us that they are so often misunderstood and so many end up in rehoming shelters. Our biggest challenge was finding a place to live that was suitable for us to adopt a dog, so we patiently waited until we were in a position to move into the right kind of accommodation (i.e. with a landlord that allowed pets and an enclosed garden). As soon as we were in, I began scanning local animal rescue centres for bulldogs in need. It wasn’t a quick process – dogs in rescue centres have individual needs and personalities, so we held out until we found our perfect match in Winslow. It was 100% worth the wait!

What was your first impression after adopting Winslow?
When we first got Winslow, it was exciting but we knew looking after him was a huge responsibility. There’s a natural period of adjustment when you get a new pet as you get into a new routine, which can be a little daunting, but as time passes and life picks up a new rhythm, it becomes second nature and you can feel yourself and your pet relaxing. That’s where the fun really starts.

What is Winslow’s personality like?
Winslow is the sweetest boy – he’s the gentlest giant! People often take one look at him and expect him to be a ferocious beast but the truth is, he loves nothing more than playing with his doggy friends, the odd tasty doggo treat and all the snuggles in the world.

How has adopting Winslow helped your mental wellbeing?
Although we didn’t adopt Winslow for the purpose of improving our mental wellbeing, it has without doubt had a significant positive impact. In the natural lows of life, simply looking into Winslow’s eyes lights us up. He is a beacon of joy, always. His cuddles are the best medicine after a bad or stressful day. He motivates us to work hard as we know we are here to support and care for him. He is a beautiful reason to get out of bed in the morning – regardless of how tired we feel!

Whether it’s sun, rain, wind, snow or hail, we get out in the fresh air every day, which is as good for us physically and mentally as it is for him. We watch the seasons change on our walks and have a new appreciation for how spectacular nature is. Some mornings, hearing the birds sing and seeing as the sun rises is simply breath taking and makes you happy to be alive. Walks are often a social event for all of us. Winslow has so many doggy friends he loves to play with and it has resulted in us getting to know our neighbours and people in the local community that we otherwise may not have met.

How do you think you’d be feeling and coping with life if you didn’t have Winslow?
As both George and I work from home, I honestly don’t think I’d leave the house most days if it wasn’t for Winslow. I’ve battled with anxiety and depression since I was a teenager.
When I think back to life before Winslow, I didn’t realise anything was missing but now I don’t know how we’d do without him. Life wouldn’t be as joyful if Winslow wasn’t in it. We’d potentially be a lot lazier and rounder if it wasn’t for our daily walks! I’d have struggled far more during the pandemic if Winslow wasn’t around. He makes us feel loved, even in the loneliest, saddest moments of life.

What would you say to other people who are struggling with mental health/wellbeing and are perhaps considering getting a pet?
If you have the time and space to accommodate having a pet in your life – do it! You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.

An adventurous hamster who was found in Bristol this week has prompted quite a bit of interest in these furry creatures. Here’s what you need to know…

Recently a hamster was brought into us by a couple who had found it in their loft. They had heard scratching sounds and after making a hole to put in an access panel, the hamster popped out! After a brief stay with us, Dasher the hamster found a new home with a family in Bristol who are experienced hamster keepers.

The story prompted a lot of people to ask us about what’s involved in keeping hamsters as pets, so here we’ll be answering the most common questions.

Where should hamsters live?
The minimum size for a hamster cage is 78cm – 48cm x 36cm and make sure the bars are spaced no further than 1cm. They’ll need a deep layer of suitable bedding for burrowing, a food bowl, water bowl and suitable toys and accessories. You should also put in a wheel with a minimum diameter of at least 20cm for dwarf hamsters or 28cm for Syrian hamsters. The more space and enrichment activities you can offer your hamster, the happier they will be.

Can hamsters be housed outdoors?
No. In the wild, hamsters live in warm, dry climates so outdoors in the UK would not be a suitable environment for them. It’s also important that they aren’t exposed to drafty or damp conditions. They need to be kept in a room where the lights go off at more or less the same time each night. Try to avoid erratic hours of lighting. Hamsters are also sensitive to bright sunlight.

Do hamsters like company?
Not all hamsters are sociable. In the wild, Syrian hamster adults generally live on their own in their burrows. Other species, such as the Russian dwarf, naturally live in groups – but if you are planning to house them together it’s important that it’s done under appropriate conditions.

If you are housing hamsters in groups, take great care to make sure the groups are compatible. Hamsters are generally solitary animals, and can be aggressive towards other hamsters. When aggression occurs between hamsters it can be very dramatic and lead to serious injury or even death. Provide multiple shelters in the cage so that each hamster can hide away from the others if they need to. Any fighting between group members is likely to happen during the night when your hamsters are most active so always check them in the morning to make sure that none of them have been badly injured and need to be taken to the vet.

Do not house unfamiliar hamsters, and different cages of hamsters, next to one another as they can find this stressful. Hamsters use odours including pheromones to communicate. The presence and scent of other animals in the home can also be stressful for hamsters, so make sure to keep them away from your hamster.

How do you handle a hamster?
Hamsters enjoy interacting with people – but only if you’re careful and sensitive to their needs. Don’t handle them when they’re sleeping and try to let them investigate your hands in their own time, rather than grabbing them straight away. Hamsters should be picked up by cupping the hamster with two hands and then gently opening the hands so that the hamster is sitting on joint palms.

What do hamsters eat?
You can pick up hamster mix at most good pet shops, which is basically a compound pelleted mixture of different seeds. They can also eat very small quantities of greens, cleaned root vegetables or pieces of fruit to supplement their usual food and add variety. Don’t feed them rhubarbs or grapes though, as these can be poisonous to rodents.

It is also very important to ensure they have continuous access to fresh, clean drinking water. The water should be given ideally from a bottle with a valveless sipper tube. Check the water bottle daily for leaks and/or blockages. Change their water regularly and clean the bottle and nozzle properly to avoid contamination.

 

A ‘misunderstood’ rescue dog is recreating famous Banksy artworks as part of an appeal to find him a forever home.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has launched a new appeal to find a home for a dog called Banksy (pictured here with Kaya from our Animal Care Team and volunteer dog walker Rob Hill).

As part of this campaign, Banksy the dog will be visiting some of the famous Banksy artworks dotted around Bristol on his walkies and is taking inspiration from those works to create his own paw print art on canvas, which will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Centre.

Banksy had a rough start in life, having passed between a few homes already, and is now looking for a consistent and patient home where he can settle.

He is a lovely dog with a cheeky personality. He loves training and is very eager to please, but he can get a bit boisterous and mouthy when he feels unsure as to how he should behave in certain situations.

Banksy needs to wear a muzzle during his walks and be exercised away from other dogs off their leads. He would also be best living alone without other dogs, cats or children.

He is a misunderstood dog with lots of potential, and we are sure that he will bring a great deal of joy to the right family.

So far, Banksy has painted his own version of Banksy’s famous ‘Cat and Dog’ artwork, using his nose and paws to spread the paint. The print was created using dog-friendly paint…and a great deal of dog treats!

Over the coming weeks, he will be painting more Banksy inspired works, with the whole set being put up for auction on our Facebook page in the New Year.

Banksy really enjoys creating the artworks, it’s a great enrichment activity for him to do with his carers and the brilliant thing about it is that every penny raised from his art will go towards helping, healing and homing the vulnerable animals in our care.

A runaway ferret in Bristol this week has prompted a flurry of interest in these furry creatures. Here’s what you need to know…

This week a ferret arrived into our care from Highcroft Exotic Vets nearby. He had somehow found his way into someone’s house and clambered into bed with them! He was a large chap, weighing about 1kg and we named him Snoozy. He is soon to be reunited with his owner, but in the meantime a lot of people have been asking us about what’s involved in keeping ferrets as pets, so here we’ll be answering the most common questions.

Where should ferrets live?
Ferrets need lots of space (minimum cage size of 80cm wide x 60cm deep x 120cm high), with separate places for them to eat, sleep, play, and toilet. Your ferret’s housing should be secure and free from any hazards – their inquisitive nature may cause them to chew through any electric cables nearby!

A secure exercise area or run should be attached to the living area to allow the ferrets to exercise outside of their cage. The ideal locations for this include a spare room or conservatory area, or part of a room dedicated to housing your ferrets – wherever it is, it will need to be ‘ferret proofed’ as they are notorious escape artists!

The ideal temperature for housing is between 15-21ºc and it should be well ventilated though draught free.

Food and water bowls and toilet areas should be cleaned out daily, with a full clean out of the housing weekly. If you have other pets who may be prey species for ferrets (e.g. rodents and rabbits), keep them well away from ferrets and in a secure environment.

Ferrets are very active when they’re awake and need lots of stimulation. Make sure to include things in their housing that they can play with, such as tunnels, hammocks, tubes and other toys. They enjoy digging, so a storage box full of dry rice or soil will also keep them happy.

Can ferrets be housed outdoors?
It is possible to house ferrets outdoors – a converted shed or Wendy house is a popular option for housing ferrets, and is best for keeping your ferrets warm during the winter months. There are some additional considerations if you’re planning to do this:

Do ferrets like company?
Yes, ferrets are often very sociable with both people and other ferrets. We aim to socialise our ferrets with at least one other ferret while they are with us and look to rehome them as pairs or groups (although some ferrets are more solitary by nature).

You should interact with your ferret every day to help strengthen the bond they have with you. It may take a while for your ferret to settle in to his/her new surroundings but this should improve with time. Don’t worry if your ferret seems lazy a lot of the time – it is normal for them to sleep for a majority of the day! Your ferret should be let out for daily exercise in a safe area (they are normally most active around dusk). You should keep an eye on them and look out for any changes in behaviour, as this may be a sign of stress or illness.

What do ferrets eat?
Ferrets are carnivorous mammals and protein is a key part of their diet. They’ll need a meat based diet and it’s a good idea to leave food out at all times so they can eat when they want to. You may like to offer food in various ways – you could try hiding it around their home or using food toys to make feeding more stimulating and interesting.

Fresh clean water should also be provided at all times and checked twice daily. Ferrets sometimes enjoy playing in water as well as drinking it, so you may want to also provide water in a shallow bowl or bath (make sure it’s one that is shallow enough for the ferret to easily get out of).

Do I need to microchip my ferret?
Yes, we would strongly recommend you do this, since they can escape – as Snoozy’s little adventure this week as proved! All our ferrets have a microchip implanted under the skin, in their neck and this is usually done when the animal is neutered. The chip is smaller than a grain of rice and contains a unique number which we will register to you using your name and contact details as provided to us at the time of adoption. Once registered, the chip company will send you confirmation. It is your responsibility to update your details with the microchip company at any point if they change.

Do ferrets need to be vaccinated?
Yes. All ferrets adopted through us will have received a vaccination against canine distemper – a condition which can also infect ferrets. Even though this disease is relatively rare it is almost always fatal in pet ferrets. An annual booster vaccination is needed, and your vet may recommend other vaccinations too – check with your vet what vaccine protocol they use for ferrets.

Should ferrets be neutered?
All our ferrets are neutered before adoption. As well as for health reasons and minimising unwanted litters, this has been shown to actively improve behaviour (and odour).

Entire female ferrets will stay in season for up to six months (usually March–September) if not mated with a male, which can make them prone to a life threatening anaemia.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre recommends that ferrets of both sexes that have been neutered, should receive a Deslorelin (Suprelorin) implant to remove the trigger for hormone production by the adrenal glands, and to reduce the chance of developing adrenal disease. This involves the injection of a small implant under the skin of your ferret’s scruff – very similar to microchipping. The procedure can only be performed by a veterinary surgeon, but is extremely quick and doesn’t usually require anaesthetic. The implant lasts for a variable length of time – usually for about one and a half to two years. While this is a commonly used method of contraception and disease prevention in ferrets, it is not licensed for use in neutered ferrets. Have a chat with your own vet about whether this is a suitable option.

Can ferrets get a cold?
Yes, ferrets can catch several strains of flu virus from humans. If you think you may have a respiratory virus please minimise any contact with your ferret and ensure hygiene is as strict as possible. If you think your ferret may have a cold or flu-like virus (sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes) be sure to talk to your vet.

Seven ways to make sure your home is cat friendly.

Making the decision to adopt a cat is a big life change – after all, you are essentially welcoming a new member of the family into your home. Cats have very specific requirements when adapting to a new home, so how can you make sure they’ll settle in comfortably with you? Here are some tips from our experts to ensure you and your family offer your new cat the purrfect transition.

Safety first
Just as you would for any children visiting, make sure you remove potential hazards like cleaning products or any breakable items that the cat might accidentally knock over. Tie up/put away any loose cables that the cat could become entangled with. Be aware that some common house plants, like lilies for example, are highly toxic to cats.

Do a cat shop
Before your new companion comes home, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got everything you need to keep them happy. You’ll need a food bowl, water bowl (which you’ll need to keep in a different place to the food), a litter tray, litter, a cosy bed, a scratching board, treats and toys. Always check what food the cat has already been eating and what litter it prefers to ease the transition for your cat.

Lay out the loo
With any new cat, you’ll need to keep them indoors for a minimum of two weeks at first, so they have an opportunity to make themselves at home and bond with you before you let them out. This means they will need a litter box, at least in the interim. Make sure this is easy for them to access, as private as possible, and kept away from their food – much like us, cats don’t like to eat and go to the toilet in the same place!

Keep it private
When your cat initially arrives, you’ll need a room/space that is private for them initially, just until they feel comfortable enough to explore the rest of your home. Keep other pets and guests out to make sure they can feel safe there. Make sure it is an area where the cat has the opportunity to be higher up, like on a windowsill or bookshelf, as vertical space is very important to cats, especially in unfamiliar environments.

Hide and seek
Cats in an unfamiliar environment tend to want to hide at first, until they feel comfortable. You could provide a hiding space for your cat by placing a cardboard box on top of a tall piece of furniture, for example, but make sure it’s safe and won’t topple off. Using their carrier as a comfortable hiding space in the home is also a good option, as it will make it less stressful for the cat when you need to use the carrier for transport.

Cultivate calm
Try to make the cat’s first few days in your home a calm period of adjustment. They don’t need you to be present all the time – in fact, cats enjoy having some time on their own to explore – so don’t fuss them too much if they seem unsure. Staying in the room with them but sitting somewhere else and reading them a story is a good way to get them used to your presence and the sound of your voice, without pressuring them for physical contact.

Chip and go
Every year, over a quarter of a million animals are lost. Before taking your cat home, make sure they’re microchipped so that if they do get lost after moving in with you, you’ve got the best possible chance of being reunited quickly. Bristol A.R.C. offers free cat microchipping for cat owners in Bristol and is open to any cat in the area from four months of age.

Seven steps to creating a dog friendly home environment.

So, you’re on your way to adopting a dog, but how can you make sure your home is ready for your new canine companion? Here are some tips from our experts to ensure your family and home are paw-fectly prepared.

Stock up
Have you got all the items your dog will need day to day? You’ll need a harness, lead and collar, bowls, food, a bed, treats and toys. Make sure you check what food the dog has already been eating to make the transition as easy as possible.

Consider a crate
Dogs instinctively like to have an open ‘den’ that they can use as a safe place where they feel secure. A dog crate usually consists of a wire frame with a removable tray within the base where the dog’s bedding can be placed, but they are available in many different sizes, designs and materials. The crate should be big enough to allow your dog to stand up, turn around and sit comfortably in a normal posture.

Puppy proofing
Each dog’s reaction to a new home will be different, but just as you would prepare your home for a new baby, you should do the same for a new pet. Close all external windows and doors, hide away your cleaning fluids, disinfectants and medicines in cupboards your pet won’t be able to reach, lock up gaps behind kitchen appliances and under cupboards, screen off fireplaces, and place electric cables out of reach so your dog can’t get tangled in them. You should also look out for fragile ornaments and tiny objects that the dog might swallow and remove items they might knock over or that could be chewed on (e.g. books, shoes, etc.)

Loo at the ready
The first thing you’ll need to do when you take your dog home is to take them to wherever they will typically be toileting. Take them to the garden, let them sniff around and get used to going out there. Use positive reinforcement and praise them when they do their business there for the first time.

Keep it calm
Friends and family may be keen to meet your new addition, but lots of visitors all at once in this unfamiliar environment can make your new dog anxious. Try to make the dog’s first day in the new home a calm period of adjustment – any children in the household need to understand that your new pet will need to be left alone for a while. After a few days you might want to allow visitors in, but try to do this gradually and individually at first, rather than inviting everyone at once.

Distraction techniques
When you first get a new dog, you’ll need to stay with them to help them settle at first. When you do eventually have to leave them alone, invest in an enrichment item such as a stuffed treat toy or puzzle food bowl to help provide a mental and physical distraction. This can help to prevent issues such as separation anxiety.

Pet pals
If you already have pets in the house, make sure they’re all up to date with their vaccinations and that they’re in good health before introducing them to your dog. If you have more than one dog, it’s important to ensure you have enough toys, beds and hiding places to avoid them becoming competitive and fighting.
Thinking about adopting a dog? Visit our dog rehoming page to see who is currently looking for a new home.

RSPCA Bristol & District