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Animal rescue centre to move after 124 years
Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has launched a new fundraising appeal ahead of a move from their historic home of more than 120 years.
The Calm Amongst the Chaos appeal comes as work continues on a number of new buildings around Bristol ARC on Albert Road in St Philip’s Marsh.
Construction work means that the environment has become “increasingly stressful for the animals in our care and for the people supporting them every day” according to the team.
is needed now More than ever
Bristol ARC interim CEO, Mike Coe, said: “While our mission hasn’t changed, the environment around us has.
“The area was in need of regeneration but it’s no longer the calm refuge our animals need.
“It’s time to look forward and try to find a space that allows our animals, our staff and our community to breathe again, and allow other communities to develop this space.”
Coe added: “We are actively looking for a new location with good transport links, green spaces and minimal impact on our new neighbours.
“It’s time for us to branch out and increase our ability to support more animals and pet owners in Bristol.
“In the meantime we need to do all we can to mitigate the impact of local construction on the animals within our care.”
Bristol Home for Lost and Starving Dogs was a forerunner to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in St Phillip’s Marsh – image: Bristol ARC
Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is the working name for two linked charities: the RSPCA Bristol & District Branch and the Bristol Dogs & Cats Home.
They team helps, heals and homes Bristol’s vulnerable animals, “offering shelter, specialist care and a second chance at a happy life for thousands of pets” as well as giving support and advice to pet owners.
Bristol Home for Lost and Starving Dogs first opened to the public on Waterloo Street in St Philip’s in 1887 before opening on Albert Road in 1901.
It became known as the RSPCA Bristol & District Branch and Bristol Dogs and Cats Home in 1954, and changed its name to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in 2018 which was marked by a new mural by Cheo on the side of one of their buildings.
Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has been in St Philip’s Marsh since 1901 – photo: Martin Booth
In an email to supporters, the Bristol ARC team said: “After more than 120 years at our beloved site on Albert Road, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre will soon be moving.
“Since 1901, our team has cared for tens of thousands of Bristol’s most vulnerable animals from this historic spot in St Philip’s Marsh.
“It’s a place full of memories, dedication and second chances. But as the city has changed around us, so too have the challenges we face.
“We’re now surrounded by major construction, constant noise and very little green space.
“The environment has become increasingly stressful for the animals in our care and for the people supporting them every day.
“Whilst we take our time to plan and build a space that truly reflects the high standards of care, compassion and healing; we still need to offer every single animal the best chance at rest, recovery and rehome.”
Cheo painted a mural to mark the charity changing its name to Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in 2018 – photo: Martin Booth
Bristol ARC is now looking to raise essential funds that could go towards:
- ongoing enrichment supplies for all animals
- off-site exercise trips to green spaces
- increased behavioural therapy support
- improvements to sleeping areas to reduce noise and vibration impacts
To donate to their Calm Amongst the Chaos appeal, visit app.donorfy.com/form/Q45CIE91P8/CATC-appeal
Main photo: Martin Booth
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