Ben Madilynn
To mark the RSPCA’s 200th anniversary, Bath Cats and Dogs Home is thanking local people for their long history of support for animal rescue with a new campaign called ‘Without You’.
James Walker and rescue dog Morris | Photo © Bath Cats and Dogs Home
The Claverton-based charity cares for more than 700 animals a year, thanks to the support of the communities of Bath and North East Somerset and West Wiltshire.
Local people contribute to the charity by adopting and fostering rescued cats and dogs, by being long-term supporters as well as volunteering in charity shops, raising funds and caring for cats and dogs.
The home was established in 1937 as the Bath and District Branch of the RSPCA.
The charity remains independently funded while also adhering to the RSPCA’s welfare standards for cats and dogs and working with local RSPCA inspectors to shelter and care for animals in need.
It has to raise more than £2 million in funds each year to continue operating.
Rachel Jones, chief executive officer at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, said: “Congratulations to the RSPCA on 200 years of creating a better world for rescue pets and other animals.
“In Bath, we cherish the small victories of our animals every day as they make positive steps, one paw at a time.
“Today, we are shining a light on the hard work of the local community and our supporters to transform the lives of our cats and dogs for the better.
“I am so grateful to our community for supporting the charity over the years, we simply couldn’t do what we do without you.”
Matthew Fenlon, from Bath, who adopted rescue dog, Peggy, from the home in 2023, said: “Our experience of adopting with Bath Cats and Dogs Home has been a wonderful journey.
“After our initial enquiry, this led to a discussion about the various types of dogs that we were interested in, ones that would suit our needs and lifestyle. The team then matched us with Peggy, and she is perfect!”
Del Gale, who has volunteered at Bath Cats and Dogs Home since 2015, said: “I love the variety of roles and working with staff and other volunteers at this amazing local charity.
“I started volunteering as a dog walker which led into puppy socialisation and then I moved on to helping with laundry and sorting retail donations.
“Since then, I have volunteered as an animal fosterer and helped with cat socialisation. I also volunteer at street collections and help to run fundraising craft stalls at community events in Bath and Somerset.”
The ‘Without You’ digital campaign features moving stories on animals such as Artemis, Reuben and Morris from their rescue to recovery as they prepare for a happy, healthy life in a new home.
Find out more at https://www.bathcatsanddogshome.org.uk/.
