Thanks to assist from the general public, Helping Dogs and Cats’ new neighborhood store, which incorporates an animal foodbank, opened its doorways on Saturday, October 7 in Feathers Lane within the city centre.
The Animal Star Awards had been created in 2016 to provide recognition to animals and people alike for the extraordinary issues that they do for each other.
Helping Dogs and Cats gained the Cat Rescue of the Year award at Animal Star Awards 2023 throughout a ceremony held on Saturday, November 11 in Portsmouth on the Royal Maritime Hotel and Club.
READ MORE: Helping Dogs and Cats rescue centre strikes into new premises
Speaking concerning the win, founder Kirsty Wrightson mentioned: “We bought extremely recommended final yr so we went actually anticipating the identical factor. It was abstolutely superb to win as a result of it simply reveals individuals respect the work we’re doing and the animals we’re serving to.
“We hope that successful the award can even assist to boost extra consciousness about what we do.”
As beforehand reported, the non-profit animal rescue was based mostly at Hart House, in Priestly Road, however wanted a brand new premises with extra space.
The rescue operates in Berkshire, Hampshire, Kent and Surrey, rescuing dogs, cats and different small animals. Its work consists of rehoming and rehabilitation, veterinary care, microchipping, spraying and neutering.
The shelter was provided a premises in a Basingstoke buying centre and was desperately seeking to elevate funds to pay six-month hire, together with vet payments.
However, Kirsty mentioned that due to larger demand, the neighborhood curiosity firm (CIC) was compelled to search out some place else.
SEE ALSO: Helping Dogs and Cats proprietor confirms transfer to new premises
It appealed for assist to rework the brand new website, which was in poor situation and wanted portray, shelving and new flooring.
The store formally opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Councillor David Leeks, Basingstoke’s mayor.
Kirsty mentioned: “The opening day was actually busy, we had a wonderful day I hope we managed to achieve out to extra clients. I’m so happy with our crew.”
During the primary day of opening £930 was raised, a few of which can be used to assist pay for a French Bulldog’s ear surgical procedure.
The public can go to the store to be taught extra about how Helping Dogs and Cats is making a constructive impression in Basingstoke.
