Animal shelter in plea for support

Assistant shelter manager Julie Flanagan with volunteer Sarah Robinson.

PENNINE Pen animal shelter is calling for support from animal lovers able to rehouse animals or raise money for their work.

Times are hard for the rescue shelter in Honeywell Lane — which must raise £84,000 a year to fund operations.

Staff say animal numbers are rising as people can’t afford to keep a pet. Since last October the centre — which relies on donations — has rehoused only 12 dogs, 21 cats and 10 other small animals, and has many more in need of permanent homes.

The shelter’s assistant manager, Julie Flanagan, said: “The lack of jobs means that for many owning a family pet is becoming a luxury.”

The centre’s vet bills run to £1,500-£2,500 a month without allowing for emergency treatments.

The shelter relies heavily on its two charity shops, one which has been reduced to opening three days a week.

A new Sponsor the Cattery scheme has been set up and a summer fair is booked for July 14, while the shelter is appealing for anyone who can volunteer in the charity shops or at the centre, or who would like to help raise money.

To contact the centre call 0161 621 0819.