Three tiny kittens were born outside during what has been the hottest summer we have ever had.

For their mum, Carina, simply keeping her babies alive would have been an enormous challenge. Finding enough food and clean water, protecting three vulnerable kittens and keeping them safe from the extreme heat would have been incredibly difficult.

Thankfully, this little family eventually made their way to RAIN Rescue in South Yorkshire.

But they arrived very poorly.

Heartbreakingly, we have already lost one of the kittens.

Now, little Orbit and Onyx are fighting for their lives, alongside their mum Carina, who is also extremely poorly.

A family who desperately needed help

When cats and kittens arrive at RAIN, they can have very different needs depending on what they have experienced before coming into our care.

Some arrive needing basic preventative veterinary care and a safe place to recover. Others, like Orbit, Onyx and Carina, arrive seriously unwell and need much more intensive support.

Every cat coming into our care receives a full health check. They are given essential treatment such as flea and worm treatment, microchipping and vaccinations, helping us give them the healthiest possible start while they are with us.

But for animals who arrive poorly, the care doesn’t stop there.

They may need additional veterinary appointments, diagnostic tests, medication, ongoing treatment and close monitoring. Sometimes their recovery can take days, weeks or even longer.

And sadly, we don’t always know what they will need until they arrive.

The cost of caring for poorly rescue cats

At the moment, 58 animals are depending on RAIN, including 19 kittens.

Alongside providing everyday care for every animal in our centres, we also face the additional veterinary costs that come when animals arrive sick, injured or in desperate need of treatment.

A £75 donation could help provide crucial veterinary care for a cat in our care.

This could help towards essential care such as a health check, flea and worm treatment, microchipping and vaccinations.

For poorly animals, donations can also help us provide the ongoing veterinary treatment and medication they need to give them the best possible chance.

Give the Gift of Vital Vet Care

We won’t give up on Orbit, Onyx and Carina

We don’t know what the days ahead will bring for this little family.

We have already lost one of their babies, and seeing Orbit, Onyx and Carina so unwell is heartbreaking.

But they have made it to RAIN.

They are safe.

And we will do everything we possibly can to help them.

Your support means that when an animal desperately needs help, we can say yes.

Whether an animal needs their first health check, essential preventative treatment or intensive veterinary care to help them recover, your donations make that care possible.

Please help us care for Orbit, Onyx and Carina

If you can, please make a donation today to help RAIN continue caring for cats, kittens and other rescue animals who need us.

Your donation could help provide the veterinary care, medication, food and support that animals like Orbit, Onyx and Carina desperately need.

Donate today and help save this little family

Every donation, whatever the size, helps us be there when an animal needs us most.

The post Orbit & Onyx’s Story: Help Poorly Kittens in RAIN’s Care appeared first on RainRescue.

We’re incredibly proud to have been featured in Living North Magazine in an article titled “Furever Homes.“

In this feature, Living North explores the work of RAIN, our journey as a small charity, and why the need for rescue has never been greater. The article also celebrates the opening of our second rescue centre at Misson, Doncaster,  marking an exciting new chapter that will help us rescue, rehabilitate and rehome even more animals.

We’d like to thank the team at Living North for helping to shine a light on the challenges facing rescue centres across Yorkshire and for sharing the story of RAIN with their readers.

Read the Feature Here

Support the Work Behind the Story

Every donation, adoption, volunteer hour and shared social media post helps us continue rescuing animals who have nowhere else to turn. As demand for our services continues to grow, your support means we can be there when animals need us most.

You can help by:

• Adopting a rescue dog or cat
• Making a donation
• Becoming a monthly donor
• Volunteering with RAIN
• Visiting our charity café and shop

Together, we can give more animals the happy ending they deserve.

The post RAIN featured in Living North Magazine appeared first on RainRescue.

Over the last eight months, Dawn has lovingly created an amazing 550 handmade items, including crochet keyrings and other unique gifts that will be available to buy at our Open Day and in our RAIN shops.

Each item has been carefully handmade with love, time and dedication, with every sale helping to support the rescued animals who come through our doors.

Handmade fundraising with a purpose

Dawn has always had a passion for animals and wanted to use her creativity to make a difference. After discovering RAIN online, she was inspired by the work we do rescuing and caring for cats and dogs in need.

When we asked Dawn why she makes these wonderful creations, she said:

“I have always been passionate about all animals and their wellbeing. Every animal deserves love, care and kindness. Animals are a blessing and bring more to the lives of people than can ever be expressed in words.

I have always been creative and wanted to put that creativity to use and help animals in need. I found RAIN online and was in awe of the wonderful work they do. Every person who works and volunteers at RAIN is truly amazing, and I wanted to do what I could to help raise some much needed funds for the precious and now safe animals in their care.

I have thoroughly enjoyed making every item knowing that I am helping rescue animals start their journey to a new and better life.”

Thank you, Dawn, for supporting RAIN

We cannot thank Dawn enough for the incredible time, care and kindness she has put into creating these handmade treasures. Every stitch represents compassion and every item sold will help us continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need.

Fundraising support like Dawn’s helps provide essential care, including food, veterinary treatment, comfort and a safe place for animals while they wait for their new beginnings.

Whether you create handmade items, organise a fundraiser, donate your skills or simply support our work, every act of kindness makes a difference.

Thank you, Dawn, for helping rescue animals through your amazing crochet creations.

Keep an eye out for Dawn’s handmade items at upcoming RAIN events, our shops and fundraising opportunities.

Want to support RAIN?
There are lots of ways you can help rescue animals — from fundraising and volunteering to buying gifts from our shops. Every bit of support helps us continue our mission of Rescuing Animals In Need.

The post Handmade with Love: Dawn’s Crochet Creations Helping Rescue Animals at RAIN appeared first on RainRescue.

At RAIN, we believe every rescue animal deserves the absolute best start in their new home. Thanks to the generous support of Donald Cooke Ltd, every dog adopted from RAIN will now leave with a special adoption gift pack, filled with treats and goodies to help them settle into family life.

Each dog adoption pack will include:

• A delicious Fruity Friends Garden Bites treat
• A tasty K9 Chew Co treat pack
• A 20% off voucher for Cookes PET Supplies, helping adopters save on those essential pet supplies

Cat adopters will also benefit from the partnership, receiving a 20% off voucher for Cookes PET Supplies to help them purchase everything they need to welcome their new feline friend home.

A Partnership Built on a Shared Love of Rescue

Donald Cooke Ltd’s support comes from a genuine passion for animal welfare and helping rescue pets find loving homes.

Andrew Cooke, Director of Donald Cooke Ltd, said:

“We are a local business, with our four Cookes Natural Pet Stores based across South Yorkshire. Animal charities are always working hard to provide the best for the animals in their care, and being able to support them in a small way is something we’re really pleased to do.”

He also shared why supporting rescue charities is so important to him personally:

“My dogs have all come from rescues. The service they offer to help those animals is vital. There is always a limit to what any person or business can do to support, but the amazing work charities seem to achieve on very small budgets is incredible value for money.”

Supporting Pets Beyond Their Time at RAIN

Partnerships like this play a vital role in helping us continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming homeless animals. Whether it’s providing enrichment, supporting adopters, or helping pets settle into their new homes, every act of kindness makes a real difference.

We are incredibly grateful to Donald Cooke Ltd for choosing to support RAIN and our rescue animals. Their generosity helps us provide an even better adoption experience for both our supporters and the pets beginning their next chapter.

Our Centre Manager, Sophie, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Donald Cooke Ltd for supporting our adopters and helping make the journey home even more special. These thoughtful gift packs are a lovely way to welcome our rescue dogs into their new families, and we’re so pleased our cat adopters can also benefit from the Cooke Supplies voucher.”

Capturing Special Adoption Moments

As part of their support, Donald Cooke Ltd have also kindly sponsored two new adoption photo banners for RAIN.

The banners feature the message:

“Finding Forever Homes at RAIN Rescue”

They will be used when adopters collect their new pet, creating a special photo opportunity to capture the moment they officially become part of their new family.

These photos will celebrate the happy endings made possible through rescue and showcase the incredible bond between adopters and their new companions.

Thank You, Donald Cooke Ltd

From everyone at RAIN—our team, volunteers, adopters and, most importantly, the animals in our care—thank you to Donald Cooke Ltd for your kindness, generosity and belief in what we do.

Your partnership helps us continue rescuing animals in need and supporting the families who give them the loving homes they deserve.

Together, we’re helping more pets and people through every storm.

The post Donald Cooke Ltd Partners with RAIN Rescue appeared first on RainRescue.

Motley, our beautiful five-year-old Pomeranian, suddenly became very poorly.

She wasn’t quite herself. Normally bright, playful and always ready for cuddles, Motley had become quiet and withdrawn. She developed an upset tummy and diarrhoea, and with the recent extreme temperatures, we knew dehydration could quickly become a serious concern.

Our team monitored her closely while keeping her hydrated and arranging for her to be seen by our vets.

At Rain Rescue, every animal in our care is treated as though they are one of our own. When they need us, we act.

A Worrying Turn for the Worse

Our incredible veterinary nurse, Tash, stayed behind after work to keep a close eye on Motley.

As the evening progressed, Motley deteriorated.

When Tash checked on her later that night, she discovered a large amount of blood in Motley’s diarrhoea. She was lethargic, clearly uncomfortable and completely unlike the happy little dog we all know and love.

There was only one option.

An emergency trip to the out-of-hours vets.

Putting Motley’s Welfare First

Emergency veterinary care is never inexpensive, but when one of our animals needs urgent treatment, we don’t stop to ask whether we can afford it.

We simply do what’s right.

Tash stayed with Motley until after midnight, making sure she wasn’t alone while she received the care she desperately needed.

The vets diagnosed haemorrhagic diarrhoea, a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. Motley was given pain relief and anti-sickness injections before returning home with additional pain medication and Promax to help settle her gastrointestinal tract.

She is now back with us, resting comfortably and being closely monitored by our team as we do everything we can to help her recover.

Every Emergency Comes at a Cost

We’re incredibly relieved that Motley is safe.

But emergency veterinary treatment comes with significant, unexpected costs.

As a charity, we never want money to be the reason an animal doesn’t receive the care they need. Every time a dog or cat arrives needing urgent treatment, we want to be able to say “yes” without hesitation.

That’s only possible because of kind-hearted supporters like you.

Can You Help Motley Today?

If you’re able to make a donation towards Motley’s emergency veterinary treatment, we’d be so grateful.

Every gift, no matter the size, helps cover the cost of her care and ensures we can continue providing lifesaving treatment to every animal that needs us.

Thank you for standing beside Motley, Tash and every rescue animal who relies on Rain Rescue when they need us most. Together, you make these second chances possible.

The post When Motley Needed Us Most, We Didn’t Hesitate appeared first on RainRescue.

Found as strays in a garden, they were brought into our care frightened, vulnerable and completely unfamiliar with human kindness. All they had ever known was life on the streets.

At an age when kittens should be playing, exploring and purring contentedly, these little ones were hiding away, cowering and trembling with fear.

A Shocking Discovery

As our cattery team began to assess the kittens, it quickly became clear that they had been suffering for some time.

They were absolutely riddled with fleas and in such poor condition that they were already anaemic from the severity of the infestation. They were also dangerously underweight and weak, having struggled to survive alone at such a young age.

The flea infestation was so severe that their first bath turned the water red with blood.

While fleas are often thought of as a minor nuisance, they can be incredibly dangerous for young animals. Severe infestations can cause anaemia, painful skin infections and, in some cases, even prove fatal.

It’s heartbreaking to think about what these kittens had already endured in their short lives.

The Road to Recovery

Thankfully, these six kittens are now safe.

Although they remain cautious and unsure of people, we are beginning to see the first encouraging signs of progress. Slowly but surely, they are starting to come out of their shells. Small moments of curiosity, trust and even playfulness are beginning to replace fear.

At RAIN, we are committed to giving them everything they need to recover and thrive. That includes urgent flea and worm treatment, vaccinations, microchipping, neutering when they are old enough, nutritious food, a safe environment and the patient, consistent care needed to help them learn that people can be trusted.

We Can’t Do It Without You

Every animal that comes through our doors deserves a chance to heal, but providing that care comes at a cost.

With so many cats and dogs already relying on RAIN, unexpected arrivals like these kittens place additional pressure on our limited resources. Our team works tirelessly to balance veterinary treatment, food, shelter and rehabilitation for every animal in our care.

We will always step up for animals in need, just as we have for these six kittens. But we cannot do it alone.

Help Give Them the Future They Deserve

Your support can help transform fear into safety, suffering into comfort and six difficult beginnings into bright, healthy futures.

By making a donation today, you’ll not only help these kittens receive the care they desperately need, but you’ll also help ensure that RAIN can continue to be there for every other cat and dog who needs us.

Please consider making a donation today and helping us give these kittens — and so many others — the second chance they deserve.

Thank you for helping RAIN be there when it matters most.

The post This Is Not How a Kitten’s Life Should Begin appeared first on RainRescue.

Heatstroke and dehydration can happen quickly, especially in pets, so taking a few simple precautions could save a life.

1. Avoid Walks During the Hottest Part of the Day

When temperatures climb, dogs should only be walked during the coolest parts of the day – early morning or later in the evening. Hot pavements can burn sensitive paw pads, and exercising in the heat greatly increases the risk of heatstroke.

If it feels too hot for you, it’s probably too hot for your dog.

Cats are less likely to go on walks, but outdoor cats should always have access to shaded areas where they can escape the sun.

2. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times

Hydration is essential during warm weather. Make sure both dogs and cats have constant access to fresh, cool water indoors and outdoors.

Top tip: Add extra water bowls around your home and garden during hot spells, and consider adding ice cubes to help keep water cooler for longer.

3. Create Cool, Shady Spaces

Pets need somewhere cool and comfortable to relax away from direct sunlight. Whether indoors or outside, provide shaded areas with good airflow.

Helpful cooling ideas include:

• Cooling mats for dogs and cats
• Tiled or hard flooring to lie on
• Fans or open windows with safe ventilation
• Shaded garden spots or covered outdoor shelters

Cats often seek out hidden warm spots, so check sheds, greenhouses, conservatories and sunny rooms regularly.

4. Help Them Cool Down Safely

Using a damp towel on the floor or gently misting your pet with cool (not icy cold) water can help regulate body temperature safely.

Never pour freezing water over an overheated pet, as this can cause shock.

Some dogs may also enjoy paddling pools or frozen treats during hot days.

5. Swap Walks for Indoor Enrichment

If it’s too hot to head outside, try mentally stimulating activities instead. Dogs and cats both benefit from enrichment that keeps them entertained without overheating.

Enrichment Ideas for Dogs

• Snuffle mats
• Puzzle feeders
• Treat hunts around the house
• Short scent games

Did you know? Just 15 minutes of scent work can tire a dog out as much as an hour-long walk.

Enrichment Ideas for Cats

• Treat puzzles
• Wand toys in cooler rooms
• Cardboard boxes and hiding games
• Frozen lick treats

Keeping pets mentally engaged is a great alternative during periods of hot weather.

6. Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency and can become fatal very quickly.

Watch out for these warning signs:

• Heavy panting
• Excessive drooling
• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Confusion or wobbling
• Collapse
• Rapid breathing

Cats can sometimes hide symptoms, so unusual behaviour, heavy breathing or weakness should always be taken seriously.

If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.

7. Check Pavement Temperatures Before Going Out

Before walking your dog, place the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.

Stick to:

• Grass routes
• Woodland walks
• Shaded areas
• Shorter outings

On very hot days, skipping the walk altogether is often the safest option.

Never Leave Pets in Cars

Even with windows open, temperatures inside a car can become deadly within minutes. Dogs and cats should never be left unattended in vehicles during warm weather.

Let’s Keep Pets Safe This Summer

Warm weather can be enjoyable for both people and pets, but safety must always come first. By taking a few simple precautions, you can help prevent heatstroke and keep your furry companions safe, happy and comfortable throughout the summer months.

If you believe your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, seek veterinary advice immediately – acting quickly could save their life.

The post Keeping Dogs and Cats Safe in the Heat appeared first on RainRescue.

Terrence was in a terrible state. He was suffering from cat flu, had infected and runny eyes, painful wounds from fighting, an infected eye and a weeping abscess. It was clear that life had been incredibly tough for him.

Back at RAIN, Terrence was placed in isolation and immediately started treatment. He wasn’t the easiest patient! Eye drops were definitely not his favourite thing, and he soon earned himself the nickname “Grumpy Cat” amongst the team. Beneath his gruff exterior, however, was a cat who simply needed time, care and compassion.

We treated him for fleas and worms, helped him gain weight and strength, and once he was well enough, he was neutered in the hope it would reduce his desire to fight with other cats. Slowly but surely, Terrence began to recover.

After eight weeks in our care, we realised pod life wasn’t really for him. To give him some extra enrichment, we began allowing him access to our catio, and that’s when his personality truly started to shine. Terrence loved exploring, watching the world go by and stretching out in the sunshine. He strutted around as if he owned the place!

As his confidence grew, so did his affectionate side. Despite his tough exterior, Terrence had become a firm favourite with the team.

Then came the moment we’d all been hoping for. A lovely couple saw Terrence’s adoption video and fell in love. They offered him exactly what he needed: a quiet home with plenty of space, no other cats and people who would love him for the character he is.

While we were sad to say goodbye, we knew Terrence had found the perfect match. Today, he’s thriving in his forever home, enjoying all the comforts he deserves. Having arrived at RAIN weighing just 4.5kg, he’s now a much healthier and happier 6.5kg lap cat who spends his days doing exactly what he loves.

Terrence’s journey is a wonderful reminder that every animal deserves a second chance. Thanks to the support of our community, cats like Terrence can leave their difficult pasts behind and look forward to a brighter future.

The post Happy Tails: Terrence’s New Beginning appeared first on RainRescue.

Saturday 18th July | 11am – 3pm
RAIN Rescue, Bracken Hill Lane, Misson, Doncaster, DN10 6FA

Something exciting is happening at RAIN Rescue, and we’d love you to celebrate with us.

Since 2002, RAIN Rescue has been a lifeline for dogs and cats with nowhere else to turn. Together with our incredible supporters, we’ve spent more than 20 years rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals who deserve a second chance.

Now we’re taking the next step in that journey.

We’re proud to be opening the first phase of our new rescue centre – a major milestone that will help us support even more animals in need.

This first phase includes our new on-site veterinary facility, café and shop. More than just buildings, these spaces will create a welcoming community hub where animal lovers can come together, support rescue animals and be part of something special.

And this is only the beginning.

Over the next five years, we have exciting plans to continue developing the site, helping us rescue more dogs and cats, provide better care and create even more happy endings.

Come and Celebrate With Us

Join us for a day of community, celebration and support for rescue animals.

You’ll be among the first to explore our new facilities, meet the team behind RAIN Rescue and learn more about our vision for the future.

Activities on the day include:

• Official ribbon-cutting ceremony
• Fun dog show (weather permitting)
• Pet portraits
• Raffles and prizes
• A variety of stalls to browse and enjoy
• Additional activities and surprises throughout the day

More Than a New Building

This event isn’t just about opening doors to a new site.

It’s about celebrating the people who have made it possible.

Our supporters, adopters, volunteers, fundraisers and local community have been at the heart of RAIN’s work since 2002. This new centre has been built with the future in mind – creating a place where people can come together to support rescue animals and help transform lives.

Every visit, every purchase in the shop, every coffee bought in the café and every pound raised will help support dogs and cats who need us most.

Why This Matters

Every year, dogs and cats arrive at RAIN needing safety, care and a fresh start.

This new site will help us do more. More rescues. More rehabilitation. More second chances.

The opening of our veterinary facility, café and shop is just the first step in a wider vision for the site. With further development planned over the next five years, we’re building a future that will allow us to help even more animals in need.

By joining us on the day, you’re not simply celebrating a new chapter for RAIN – you’re helping shape it.

Join Us

Whether you’ve supported RAIN for years or are discovering us for the first time, we’d love to welcome you.

Come and explore the new centre, meet fellow animal lovers and celebrate what we can achieve when a community comes together for dogs and cats in need.

Together, we’re creating more opportunities for rescue animals to find the happy endings they deserve.

We can’t wait to see you there.

Important Information

Dogs are welcome to attend. However, their welfare will always come first.

We will be monitoring temperatures closely and may adjust some dog-related activities if weather conditions become too warm. Updates will be shared on our website and social media channels ahead of the event, including any advice about bringing dogs along.

Thank you for helping us keep all animals safe and comfortable throughout the day.

The post Misson: Grand Opening Day! appeared first on RainRescue.

Appointments are limited, so early booking is essential.

Neutering costs

We aim to keep neutering accessible for those who need it most:

Stray or feral cats – FREE
Owned cats – £10 with a Cats Protection voucher (applied for through RAIN)

This includes both neutering and microchipping, helping to keep cats safe, healthy and identifiable for life.

Eligibility:
Cat owners must be receiving means-tested benefits or have a household income of £25,000 or under.

Why neutering your cat is so important

Neutering is one of the most effective ways to prevent unwanted litters and reduce the number of cats entering rescue centres each year. It helps reduce suffering and ensures fewer cats and kittens are born into uncertain or unsafe situations.

Welfare benefits

• Prevents unwanted litters
• Reduces the number of cats entering rescue centres
• Helps reduce stray and abandoned cat populations
• Supports better overall cat welfare in the wider community

By choosing to neuter your cat, you are helping to prevent unnecessary suffering and making a real difference to cats in need.

How to book

To book an appointment or request more information, please contact our team:

Call: 01709 247777
Email: enquiries.vets@rainrescue.co.uk

Please include your phone number in your email, and a member of our team will be in touch.

Working together for better cat welfare

Through our partnership with the Cats Protection vouchers, RAIN is helping make neutering more accessible and reducing the number of unwanted cats and kittens.

Every neutering appointment helps create a safer, healthier future for cats everywhere.

The post Affordable Cat Neutering appeared first on RainRescue.