THE local RSPCA branch around St Helens has rehomed 151 animals this year.
As pets are often bought as Christmas presents and sometimes left unwanted or neglected by their owners, a handful of dedicated charities work hard to look after these animals and find them a new home.
Around St Helens, Warrington, and Halton, the RSPCA specialised in looking after cruelly-treated, abandoned and neglected dogs and cats which are brought in by local officers.
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Some of these animals cannot be rehomed until they are signed over into the charity's care following court proceedings. During this time, staff and volunteers at the centre will rehabilitate, train and care for these animals until new homes can be found for them.
Over the past year, the local RSPCA branch has rehomed 151 pets to new homes to look after them, although many more are looking for new homes while staff are always on the lookout for more foster homes.
A spokesperson for the RSCPA said: "The centre would also like to extend a huge thanks to everyone who has adopted animals from them this year, and to the many individuals and companies who have given up their time to foster, volunteer and fundraise for the centre.
"Huge thanks also to the schools, community groups, local businesses and individuals who have brought in Christmas food, toys and blankets for the animals. Everyone's support is massively appreciated."
RSPCA branches, like Warrington, Halton & St Helens, are part of the RSPCA family, but they are separate registered charities in their own right. They are responsible for raising all their own funds to care for the animals they take in. Volunteers and fundraisers are always welcome and can get in touch with the centre via their social media channels.
To look for a pet that needs rehoming around St Helens, Warrington and Halton, you can visit this website. Rehoming is paused until Tuesday, January 2.
A festive shoebox appeal for the charity can also be found here, while those interested in rehoming a pet can email rehoming@rspca-whs.org.uk.
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