An animal rescue organization has shifted its focus to helping pet owners keep their animals, aiming to reduce the number of pets needing rehoming. Animals In Need, located in Little Irchester, Northamptonshire, is prioritizing assistance with the costs of pet care and addressing behavioral challenges.
According to the charity, many owners who reach out are struggling with veterinary expenses, food costs, or managing their pets’ behavior. Annie Marriott, the charity’s manager, explained, “Our goal is to help owners keep their pets at home. If they’re facing financial difficulties, we guide them to available resources.”
The sanctuary, situated near Wellingborough, cares for a wide range of animals, from racing greyhounds to orphaned baby birds, ensuring they find new homes or are prepared for release back into the wild.
The charity also collaborates with local food banks to provide pet food for dogs, cats, and rabbits, allowing owners to pick up donated supplies directly from the shelter. When behavioral issues make pet ownership difficult, the organization connects owners with professional trainers to help them address the challenges.
Ms. Marriott emphasized that the most urgent cases among the daily influx of animals at the charity are the dogs. “We always prioritize the dogs from the pound,” she said, “because they only have a seven-day holding period before they might face euthanasia.”
The charity has also noted a rising number of unwanted cats. “The situation with cats and kittens is out of control right now,” Ms. Marriott added. “It’s crucial that people get their cats neutered.”
Among the current residents is Lionel, a Herdwick lamb. Assistant manager Emma Townsend shared his story: “Lionel was born on a hobby farm, but his mother didn’t claim him. He arrived here when he was just two days old and has been bottle-fed ever since.”
Unlike other animals, sheep are not typically rehomed by the shelter, so Lionel will remain at the sanctuary. He has formed a strong bond with Ms. Townsend, even giving her an unexpected haircut.
She recalled, “Late one night, after everyone else had left, I stayed with the lambs. I dozed off for about half an hour, and when I woke up, they were chewing on my hair. As I sat up, they were still clinging to it, and I noticed a chunk was missing.”