Lancaster’s Animal Care has launched a Big Build Appeal to raise £1 million for a sustainable future.

The charity, founded in 1978, feared for its future earlier this year when financial pressures increased.

An appeal then has allowed it to continue providing care for more than 800 animals a year but instead of relying on donations and fundraising, the charity wants to become self-sufficient by building a new boarding kennel and cattery.

“Our ultimate goal is to fund the charity ourselves which is why we started building the boarding kennels and cattery but we’ve faced setbacks,” said Faye Goymer, Animal Care’s

Cute kittens are among those who could be enjoying a new cattery if the Big Build Appeal is successful.

placeholder image — Cute kittens are among those who could be enjoying a new cattery if the Big Build Appeal is successful.

general manager.

As well as providing a quality facility for pets while their owners are away, the aim is to also offer short-term care for pets whose owners are unable to look after them while in hospital, receiving medical treatment or moving into care.

By offering such temporary accommodation, Animal Care hopes that it can prevent pets from being unnecessarily rehomed or abandoned, while giving owners peace of mind until they can take them home again.

Work on the new building began about five years ago but received a setback when the roof was stolen and the charity had to use some of its funds to replace it.

Prince is just one of the dogs at Animal Care hoping that the Big Build Appeal is successful.

Meanwhile, running costs including food, vet treatment, utilities and maintenance have risen.

The facility is now half built and not in a position to welcome any furry guests.

“We’re trying to find people, especially businesses, to help fund the rest of the building work and also perhaps offer practical help,” said Faye.

A crowdfunding campaign has been set up and among donations from businesses have included Birch Tree Vets in Carnforth and McCann’s fish and chip shop in Heysham who rehomed one of the charity’s cats.

Some of the rabbit residents at Animal Care.

Animal Care can organise tours for any businesses interested in donating towards the Big Build and could have their names on the completed kennels.

The charity also welcomes regular giving, sponsorship, one-off donations and has a tea room and shop on site as well as a city centre charity shop.

“As soon as the building is completed, all proceeds will be ploughed back into the charity, helping us to pay for food, veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and everyday care of the animals,” said Faye.

To donate to the appeal, visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/animal-care-big-build