A STOURPORT dog rescue has received a £1,500 cash boost to help them provide four-legged friends with a second chance at a happy life.
Forest Dog Rescue, which rehomes around 250 homes a year, was handed the cash boost by Barratt Homes West Midlands.
The charity ensures the dog’s safety by vaccinating, neutering and providing veterinary treatment when needed.
Emma Shaffery, Shelter Manager at Forest Dog Rescue, said: “We always have a variety of projects on the go, but currently our monthly outgoings are around £35,000 and that is just to keep us running. Vet bills are one of the main outgoings.
“We are getting many dogs coming in with health issues, and vets’ fees, unfortunately, continue to increase.
- READ MORE: Kidderminster Harriers on the hunt for new pan disability players
- READ MORE: Cyclist suffers serious injuries in Kidderminster crash
- READ MORE: Man arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs in Stourport during e-scooter operation
“Without the support of companies like Barratt Homes, we would struggle to find the money, and the harsh reality is that we are unable to take some dogs, as we know there will be a huge cost involved if they have medical problems. Knowing that this money will help towards that cost gives us some breathing room.”
Originally known as the Tanwood Stray Fund, Forest Dog Rescue was set up over 40 years ago when a local vet wanted to give a chance to young and healthy dogs.
Emma added: “For example, we took in a dog called Steve from the stray pound who was due to be euthanised – no other rescue came forward, so we said we would take him. We knew he had an issue with his leg, and after seeing our own vet and then an orthopaedic specialist, it was discovered that he had previously had a serious trauma to his elbow.
“This resulted in floating bone fragments around the joint, arthritic changes inside the joint and his leg pointing the wrong way. After much discussion, we decided to go with the best option available and give him every chance, as he is only 12 months old.
“The vet bill came to £3,795, so any donations we receive are going towards Steve, not only to pay the bill but also to provide ongoing rehabilitation, including hydrotherapy and laser treatment.
“This is where the amazing donation from Barratt Homes will be going.”
