Animals In Need was founded in 2006, nearly 18 years ago. Our aim was, and still is, to help stray, abandoned, and homeless animals.
Much has changed in 18 years, but sadly, the amount of animals needing help has only increased. One of our main aims has always been to educate people on good pet ownership and neutering in particular.
As a complete volunteer run rescue, all work is carried out by dedicated volunteers.
The work they do is varied and can be anything from catching pigs, kittens, or other animals, being a delivery driver, vet nurse duties, paperwork, or running the charity shop. Our volunteers are fostering in their own homes. We don't have a centre, and finding volunteers up at night tending to young babies or injured animals is not unusual.
Official paperwork has become a major part of our days and while it can be frustrating I think we can all agree why it is needed after the last 3 PrimeTime episodes which highlighted both fund mismanagement and the need for proper regulations in animal care.
We were never founded to rehome every single pup or kitten born to owned pets.
We never pretended that, nor do we have unlimited kennel space for this. With a limited number of kennels, once they are full, that's it, and we have to rehome animals before we have space for more. That does mean we have to turn people away at times, which we never like to do, but we always try to help whether it's financially, practically, or by offering advice. Yes, that's frustrating for people, but we can not be held responsible for every litter out there.
During our 18 years, we have worked with many fantastic rescues. Rescues we know will have our back and us theirs whenever possible, but it's disheartening to be on the receiving end of continuous attacks from people we have helped numerous times.
Let's focus on our joint goal - rehoming animals, alleviating pain and suffering,and increasing the number of pets getting neutered.
All rescues in Co. Donegal are struggling, it’s heartbreaking for everyone.
We need more dedicated volunteers and fosters to assist not only our charity but all charities. After all it’s the animals that we are ALL here to help!