insideKENT Magazine Issue 58 - January 2017 | Page 135

1,000 + animals each year and sadly the numbers are growing hence the need for our second centre .
We are busy all the year but we do see peaks in animals being dumped before Christmas and the school summer holidays . These are also the times of year fewer animals are being adopted as families have their holidays and need to plan taking on a new pet wisely .
We have many sad cases and lots of happy endings too ! It is so rewarding to take in a sad , neglected dog or cat and have the opportunity to turn that animal ’ s life around . The initial heartbreak is put to one side as we set to work to heal wounds , feed empty tummies , warm freezing bodies and give some love to innocent creatures who are so grateful for a cuddle and a kind word . Every animal is precious to us , and our staff and volunteers work wonders to put back the trust and heal broken bodies and minds . It is amazing how loyal and forgiving animals are .
Our aim is not to have to say no to an animal in need , but obviously we are a small charity completely reliant upon public support . We wish there was not a need for animal rescues but sadly the demand seems to be increasing as does the running costs for charities . We are so grateful to our supporters – without them thousands of lovely dogs and cats , some old and sick , some young or pregnant , others just unwanted and unloved are left to stray and would have been destroyed in Council Pounds . Also pets whose owners who have little or no choice due to evictions , illness or having to go into homes themselves would not be enjoying life now if it had not been for donations to keep Last Chance going .
Apart from the fundraisers and charity shop helpers and contributors we also have a strong band of volunteers at the centres . Some walk our dogs or cuddle our cats , others help with cleaning , washing up , DIY , gardening , as well as volunteer drivers . We also have lots of home checkers and fosters which of course are all a great help to us ( but we could always do with more ). We also have an eBay shop and Hilary who runs it is always looking for items to sell or new customers !
More information about helping Last Chance Animal Rescue and becoming a member can be found on their website , www . lastchanceanimalrescue . co . uk 135