Shelter over run at Christmas

Jan 4 2013 by Lorraine Howard, Irvine Herald

The Scottish SPCA’s Ayrshire and South West Scotland Animal Rescue and Re-homing Centrein Ayrshire had 19 animals in care over the festive period.It was business as usual for dedicated staff at the Mainholm-based centre, which is open to the public all year round.

Centre manager Marion Hainey said: “It’s a sad reality that there are lots of animals without loving homes to call their own this Christmas time.

“Thanks to our staff, no animal here spent Christmas Day alone and they all got a wee treat from Santa too.

“It’s simply not an option for us to close over the holidays as the animals here rely on us and they don’t have anywhere else to go.

“We’ll be here for all the animals in our care throughout Christmas and New Year, ensuring they’re fed, watered and exercised every day as usual.

“There is also the task of washing down the kennels, cleaning out the catteries and other enclosures and ensuring animals receive any necessary veterinary treatment.

“We’ll also continue to take in abandoned, neglected, injured and unwanted animals who have been rescued .

“Although we aren’t re-homing young animals over the festive period to prevent them being taken on by someone who wants a new pet for Christmas and hasn’t fully thought through their decision, they can be reserved and there are lots of other pets in our care ready to find their forever homes right now.

“People are very welcome to pop in to the centre if they think they could offer one of our animals a second chance at happiness.”

The Scottish SPCA’s Ayrshire and South West Scotland Animal Rescue and Re-homing Centre is open from 10am to 4pm, seven days a week.

In 2011 the SSPCA cared for 13,437 animals.