Rescues are on their knees. I should know, my rescue is my life. Costs are up, donations are down, intakes are queuing at the gates, and rehoming has virtually stopped. All animal rescues need immediate help.

Equine rescues face additional challenges, not only dealing with financial strain but also with climate change, which makes land management increasingly difficult.  Rescuing rehabilitating and rehoming large animals is additionally difficult, not to mention the feeding and health care. 

Dog rescues have shouldered immense responsibility by not only dealing with surrenders directly to them they have saved councils spending thousands by taking over more than half of the council impounded dogs. During the period of April 24 and March 25, this amounted to 1,925 out of 3,428 dogs from council pounds.

Cat rescues are full, unable to trap neuter and release and much as they did in the past, because they are simply too full or have no funds.

Wildlife, small fluffies, reptiles, pet farmed animals—all of them are in desperate need, with rescue being their only hope.

Animal rescues provide vital services, offering safe havens for abandoned and mistreated animals, rehabilitating them, and striving to find them loving homes. The dedication of rescue workers and volunteers keeps this mission alive, but they cannot do it alone. Financial support is dwindling as economic conditions tighten, yet the number of animals in need continues to rise.

Our governments must recognize the critical role these rescues play and provide them with annual funding to sustain their operation. Such funding would ensure that rescues can cover essential costs including medical care, food, and shelter, as well as proactive campaigns to encourage adoption and responsible pet ownership.

Please stand with us in urging Northern Ireland policymakers to establish an annual funding initiative for all animal rescues. Every signature matters in pushing for this essential change to protect our vulnerable animal population. Sign the petition now and make a difference for thousands of animals in need.