Bella Boo Finds Her Happily Ever After

Not every animal’s journey through rescue is a quick one.

While some cats and dogs are lucky enough to find their new families within days or weeks, others can spend much longer waiting for the person who is willing to look beyond their past and see the wonderful animal underneath.

These are our long-stay animals — the ones who need a little more time, patience and understanding before they find their happy ending.

Sometimes, there are reasons why an animal is overlooked. They may be nervous and unsure around new people. They may have experienced trauma in their past. They may need ongoing medical care, or they may simply need more time to build their confidence. And sometimes, it is simply a matter of waiting for the right person to walk through the door. For these animals, rescue is not just about finding a home. It is about finding the right home.

That can mean weeks or even months of waiting, but every day they spend with us is another day we can help them heal, grow in confidence and discover that life can be kind.

Bella Boo was one of those cats.

She spent 14 weeks in RAIN’s care, waiting for someone special to see beyond her fear and give her the chance she deserved.

Bella’s journey

Bella arrived at RAIN after suffering abuse in her previous home. By the time she reached us, she was terrified and understandably struggled to feel safe in her new surroundings. The unfamiliar smells, new routines and busy environment of rescue life were overwhelming for her. Bella needed something that couldn’t be rushed — time.

She needed people who would be patient with her, understand her fears and give her the space she needed to slowly learn to trust again.

For 14 weeks, Bella waited.

During that time, our team continued to give her the care, patience and reassurance she needed. Slowly, she began to show us the gentle personality that had been hidden behind her fear. We knew that Bella had so much love to give. She just needed someone willing to take the time to get to know her. And then, finally, the person Bella had been waiting for came along.

Bella Boo is home

We are absolutely delighted to say that Bella has now found a wonderful home, where she is adored by her new owners and finally has the freedom to be herself.

Her new family recently sent us the most wonderful update:

“Bella has settled in so well and now has the run of the house. She is loving her freedom to explore the garden, although she never goes too far and always comes home for the night. She particularly loves relaxing in the summerhouse.

She has also bonded so well with our other cat, Kate. Bella follows her everywhere and has been such a comfort to her. Kate was still grieving, even six months after we lost our beloved Pippin, so we were so pleased to see the two of them become so close. It really feels like they needed each other.

Thank you, RAIN Rescue, for allowing us to adopt our beautiful Bella Boo. We absolutely adore her.”

For a cat who once knew fear and uncertainty, hearing that Bella is now confidently exploring her home, enjoying the garden and relaxing in the summerhouse means everything to us. After spending 14 weeks waiting for her chance, Bella has finally found the safe, loving home she deserved all along.

And perhaps the best part? She is adored.

From frightened to loved

Bella’s journey is a wonderful reminder of why rescue work matters. When she first arrived at RAIN, she needed us to give her something she had not had enough of before: time to feel safe.

Her story wasn’t about finding a home quickly. It was about finding the right home.

Sometimes, animals need weeks or even months in our care before they are ready to take their next step. During that time, we continue to provide everything they need — from food and veterinary care to comfort, patience and plenty of love.

For Bella, those 14 weeks gave her the chance to heal, gain confidence and show the world the beautiful cat she really is.

Now, she has a family who adores her, a home to explore, a garden to enjoy and a favourite summerhouse spot to relax in.

That is what a happy tail looks like.

Help us create more happy endings

Bella Boo’s happy ending is exactly what we hope for every animal who comes through RAIN’s doors.

But there are always more animals waiting for their chance.

If you’d like to help us create more happy endings like Bella Boo’s, you can support RAIN by making a donation or donating a gift to an animal currently waiting for their forever home.

Every donation helps us provide the care animals need while they are with us, including food, veterinary treatment, medication, rehabilitation, warmth and comfort.

Whether you make a one-off donation or choose a gift for an animal in our care, your support can help give another animal the chance to begin their own happy tail.

Together, we can help more animals move from fear and uncertainty to safe, loving homes where they can finally be themselves.

Here’s to your happy tail, beautiful Bella Boo.

After 14 weeks in rescue, you found the loving home you had been waiting for — and we couldn’t be happier for you.

Molly Finds Her New Home After Being Adopted by a RAIN Family

We’re delighted to share one of our latest Happy Tails from RAIN Rescue — and this one is extra special.

Our lovely Molly has officially found her new home, and we couldn’t be happier for her.

But what makes Molly’s story even more heartwarming is that her new family already knows just how special rescue animals can be.

A Second Chance for Molly

Molly’s new family previously adopted Trixie from RAIN in May. After welcoming Trixie into their lives, they decided there was room in their hearts and home for another rescue animal.

This time, they returned to RAIN and chose Molly.

Molly has now headed off to begin her new adventure, surrounded by a family who already understands the joy that comes with giving a rescue animal a second chance.

Seeing a family return to RAIN to adopt again is incredibly special to our team. It’s a wonderful reminder that the bond between a rescue animal and their adopter can be the beginning of something truly life-changing.

Another RAIN Rescue Has Found Home

Every adoption means so much to us. Behind every animal who comes into our care is a story, and our goal is always to help them move forward and find the loving home they deserve.

For Molly, that journey has now led her to a family who chose to open their hearts to RAIN not once, but twice.

We’re so grateful to Molly’s adopters for giving another rescue animal the opportunity to start a happy new chapter.

Good luck in your new home, Molly. We can’t wait to hear all about your Happy Tails!

Could You Give a Rescue Animal a Second Chance?

There are always cats and dogs in need of loving homes at RAIN Rescue. If you’re considering adopting a rescue animal, you could make a life-changing difference to an animal waiting for their next chapter.

Click here to find out more about animals currently looking for homes and discover how you could give a RAIN rescue their happy ending.

There are some losses that stay with us forever.

A beloved pet, a much-loved family member or someone special in our lives can leave behind memories that we carry with us for years. At RAIN, we’re creating a peaceful new space at our Misson site in Doncaster where those memories can be honoured and remembered.

We’re delighted to give you a first glimpse of our In Memory Walkway & Reflection Garden, which is currently being developed at RAIN.

A peaceful place to remember

Set within the peaceful countryside of our RAIN Misson site, our new In Memory Walkway and Reflection Garden in Doncaster will provide a quiet place to pause, reflect and remember someone special.

Whether you are remembering a beloved pet who has passed away or a family member or friend, we want this space to offer somewhere you can visit, take a walk and spend a little time remembering the life and memories you shared.

The garden is being designed as a calm and welcoming space, surrounded by the countryside, giving visitors the opportunity to step away from the everyday and reflect.

Create a lasting memorial

As part of the In Memory Walkway, there will be opportunities to create a lasting memorial in memory of someone special.

Memorial options will include:

• In Memory garden plaques
• Dedicated benches and memorial plaques
• Other opportunities to create a personal tribute within the garden

These memorials will provide a permanent place to remember a much-loved pet or person and celebrate the memories that will always remain.

A place you can visit

Our vision is for the RAIN In Memory Walkway & Reflection Garden in Misson, Doncaster to become a place that people can visit for years to come.

Once the project is complete, we plan to open the space so visitors can come and take a peaceful walk along the walkway, spend time in the garden and reflect on those they have loved and lost.

We hope it will become a meaningful part of our Misson site — a place where memories can be honoured and shared.

Why an In Memory Garden?

At RAIN, we understand just how important the bond between people and their pets can be. Losing a pet can leave a huge space in our lives, and having somewhere special to remember them can be incredibly meaningful.

Our pet memorial garden in Doncaster will offer a lasting way to celebrate that bond.

For some, a memorial plaque may provide a permanent reminder of a cherished companion. For others, a dedicated bench may offer somewhere to sit quietly and think about the memories they made together.

There is no right or wrong way to remember someone. Our In Memory Walkway is simply intended to provide a beautiful place where those memories can be honoured.

Coming soon to RAIN Misson

The In Memory Walkway & Reflection Garden is currently being developed, and we’re excited to share more with you as the project progresses.

Once the garden is ready, we’ll share details about visiting the garden, memorial options and how you can create your own In Memory tribute.

For now, we wanted to share this first glimpse of what we hope will become a very special part of RAIN Misson.

Some memories deserve a place to live on.

Find out more

If you would like to learn more about our In Memory Walkway, Reflection Garden and memorial opportunities, you can find out more on our dedicated page:

Find out more about RAIN’s In Memory Walkway & Reflection Garden

RAIN – For Pets and People, Through Every Storm.

How can something so tiny already have been through so much?

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.

Read the Feature Here

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.

At RAIN, we are incredibly lucky to have supporters who go above and beyond to help the cats and dogs in our care. One of those special supporters is Dawn Brown, who has been using her creativity and crochet skills to make beautiful handmade items to raise vital funds for rescue animals.

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. 🐾

We are excited to announce our new partnership with Donald Cooke Ltd, who are helping us make the adoption journey even more special for our adopters here at RAIN.

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.

We recently had to make an emergency dash to the out-of-hours vets with one of our little rescue dogs.

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.

Six tiny kittens have recently arrived at RAIN, and their story is one we won’t soon forget.

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.

Opening More Doors to Second Chances

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.

RAIN is proud to be partnering with Cats Protection to offer affordable cat neutering at our onsite veterinary clinic. This vital service helps reduce unwanted litters, supports responsible pet ownership, and improves the long-term health and welfare of cats in our community.

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.

Real stories from the people helping rescue dogs and cats 

At RAIN, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. From caring for dogs and cats in our kennels and cattery, to fostering animals in their own homes, to supporting behind-the-scenes operations — every volunteer plays a vital role in helping rescue animals recover and find loving forever homes.

Our volunteer team is made up of people from all walks of life, united by a shared love of animals and a desire to make a difference. These are just a few of their stories.

Maxine – Finding purpose after retirement through animal rescue volunteering

Maxine joined Rain Rescue after retiring from a 30-year career. Looking for purpose, connection, and something meaningful to give back to, she found volunteering with animals to be the perfect next chapter.

“My favourite part of volunteering is being part of an amazing team of caring people and seeing the cats and dogs leave the centre for their forever homes. It’s heartbreaking to see some of them arrive lost, scared and poorly, through no fault of their own. It’s wonderful to watch them grow in confidence, learn to trust again and start their next chapter with a loving family.”

One of Maxine’s most memorable moments was caring for two tiny kittens, Summer and Autumn, who arrived abandoned in a carrier. With patience and care, they blossomed into confident kittens and went on to find loving homes.

Volunteering has given Maxine lasting friendships and a renewed sense of purpose.

•  Fulfilling
• Bittersweet
• Selfless

Her advice to anyone thinking about volunteering:
“Stop thinking about it and just do it – you won’t be disappointed.”

Jackie – The joy of seeing rescue animals find forever homes

Jackie describes her volunteer journey as “amazing,” working alongside dedicated staff and other volunteers at Rain Rescue.Volunteering brings her great happiness, especially when the animals she has helped care for are adopted into loving homes.

“It is very rewarding, especially when so many have come to us from heartbreaking situations.”

For Jackie, every adoption represents hope, healing, and a fresh start.

Sue – Rediscovering purpose through cat rescue volunteering and fostering

After a 43-year career, Sue was looking for a new sense of purpose. With a lifelong love of animals — especially cats — she joined Rain Rescue as a volunteer.

She supports the cattery team by helping ensure cats are safe, cared for, and given time to relax and build confidence while they wait for their forever homes.

Sue finds it incredibly rewarding to watch frightened and uncertain cats slowly develop into confident, affectionate personalities.

She has also recently taken on her first fostering experience, caring for a mother cat and her five kittens:

“It has been an interesting and very rewarding experience. They are so cute and funny, all with individual personalities. I have learnt so much!”

Sue describes volunteering as:
Dedicated, caring, and supportive

Her message to anyone thinking about getting involved:
“Go for it — it’s so rewarding, and you are helping the community, the animals in their care, and finding their new ‘pawfect’ homes.”

Gemma & Sharon – Helping dogs thrive behind the scenes

Not all heroes are in the spotlight every day, but their impact is just as powerful.

Kennel supervisor Emma says it best:

“Gemma and Sharon go above and beyond every day, helping to make everything run smoothly while giving the dogs the love, attention, and support they deserve.”

Their consistency and care help create a stable, nurturing environment where rescue dogs can recover and rebuild trust.

Why volunteering with animal rescue matters

Volunteers at RAIN help transform the lives of abandoned, abused, and neglected animals. Every walk, every clean kennel, every cuddle, every foster placement contributes to a bigger journey — from rescue to recovery to rehoming. Without volunteers, this life-changing work simply wouldn’t be possible.

Join our volunteer team at Rain Rescue

Want to make a real difference to rescue dogs and cats?

Whether you can spare a few hours a week or want to get more involved, we’d love to welcome you.

• Help care for animals in our rescue centre
• Support rehoming and rehabilitation
• Foster and change a life from home

👉 Get involved today

Every year during Volunteers’ Week, we take the opportunity to celebrate the incredible people who make our lifesaving work possible. At RAIN, our volunteers and foster carers are at the heart of everything we do. Their compassion, dedication and generosity help transform the lives of vulnerable dogs and cats across South Yorkshire and beyond.

As we mark Volunteers’ Week 2026, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who gives their time to help animals in need.

The Impact Volunteers Have on Rescue Dogs and Cats

Behind every successful rescue story is a team of passionate volunteers working tirelessly to support animals through every stage of their journey.

Whether they’re helping with fundraising, transporting animals, supporting events, capturing professional photographs that help rescue dogs and cats find homes, or helping behind the scenes, volunteers enable Rain Rescue to reach more animals and provide the care they desperately need.

Thanks to the dedication of our supporters, volunteers and foster carers, in 2025 alone we:

• Helped 315 dogs and cats find loving new homes
• Provided vital veterinary treatment to 1,595 animals
• Gave countless dogs and cats a second chance at happiness, health and security

These numbers represent far more than statistics. They represent frightened animals receiving the medical care they desperately need, neglected pets learning to trust again, and families welcoming a new best friend into their lives.

These numbers represent more than statistics. They represent frightened animals receiving lifesaving medical care, neglected pets learning to trust again, and families welcoming a new best friend into their lives.

Every volunteer hour contributes directly to making these outcomes possible.

How Foster Carers Help Rescue Dogs and Cats

Foster carers are a special type of volunteer who open their homes and hearts to animals in need.

Many dogs and cats arrive at Rain Rescue feeling scared, confused or recovering from illness, injury or neglect. A foster home provides them with a safe, loving environment where they can begin to heal.

Giving Animals a Safe Place to Recover

Some animals need time to recover after veterinary treatment, while others simply need a calm environment away from the stress of kennel life. Foster carers provide comfort, stability and routine during this important stage of rehabilitation.

Creating Space for More Rescues

Every animal placed in foster care frees up valuable rescue space, allowing Rain Rescue to help even more dogs and cats in urgent need.

Without foster carers, many animals would have fewer opportunities to receive the individual attention and care they deserve.

Curious about what fostering is really like? Meet some of our amazing Rain Rescue dog foster carers in this short video and hear their stories first-hand. Watch our fostering video here

Why Volunteers Matter More Than Ever

Animal rescue is a team effort. Rising costs, increasing numbers of animals needing support and growing demand for veterinary care mean that volunteers play a more important role than ever before.

Their kindness helps us stretch every donation further and maximise our impact for animals.

From walking dogs and transporting pets to fundraising and fostering, volunteers make a lasting difference every single day.

Join the Rain Rescue Family

This Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating every person who has given their time, skills and compassion to help rescue dogs and cats.

If you’ve ever considered volunteering or fostering, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

By joining our volunteer community, you could help provide lifesaving care, support animals on their journey to a new home, and be part of countless happy endings.

Together, we can continue giving vulnerable dogs and cats the second chance they deserve.

Thank you to every Rain Rescue volunteer and foster carer. Your support changes lives.

June is Adopt-a-Cat Month — a time dedicated to celebrating cats in need of loving homes and raising awareness about the importance of rescue and adoption.

At RAIN, we see every day just how life-changing adoption can be — not only for the cats who find safety and love, but also for the families who welcome them home.

Why rescuing a cat is so important

Across the UK, countless cats are still waiting for their chance at a better life. Many arrive in rescue through no fault of their own — abandoned, found as strays, or surrendered when circumstances change.

By choosing to adopt, you are:

•  Giving a cat a second chance at life
• Opening space in rescue for another cat in need
• Supporting a more compassionate and ethical way to welcome a pet into your home
• Often adopting a cat who is already health-checked, vaccinated, and microchipped

Every adoption truly makes a difference — far beyond just one animal.

The reality of rescue cats

One of the biggest misconceptions is that rescue cats are “damaged” or “difficult”.

In truth, most are simply waiting for stability, patience, and love.

At RAIN, we care for cats of all personalities:

• Confident, affectionate lap cats
• Shy cats who need time to build trust
• Playful kittens full of energy
• Older cats looking for a quiet, peaceful home

There is a perfect match for almost every home — it’s just about finding the right one.

Why adopt from RAIN?

When you adopt from RAIN, you’re not just taking home a cat — you’re becoming part of a rescue journey built on care, rehabilitation, and hope.

We work closely with every cat to understand their personality, needs, and ideal home so we can make the best possible match.

Our team is here to support both you and your new cat every step of the way.

Support Cats in RAINS’ Care

Even if you’re not ready to adopt, you can still make a huge difference:

•  Donate to help us care for cats in need
• Share our cats looking for homes
• Support fostering and volunteering
• Help us reach more potential adopters

Every bit of support helps us continue saving lives.

View our cats looking for their forever homes

There are cats waiting right now for someone to choose them. This Adopt-a-Cat Month 2026, we encourage you to consider adopting a rescue cat and supporting animal welfare in your local community.

Elsie’s story began in the saddest way.

She was found tied to a lamppost, alone and abandoned, with no explanation why. She must have been so confused and frightened, waiting for someone who never came back. Thankfully, some kind people found her and took her straight to the vets, worried for her safety and wellbeing.

The vets then got in touch with us at, and of course, we said yes to bringing Elsie into our care.

We don’t know much about Elsie’s past life, or why she was abandoned, but despite everything she had been through, Elsie showed us just how gentle and loving she truly was. Beneath her worried eyes was the softest, sweetest girl who simply wanted kindness and comfort.

During her five weeks with us at RAIN, Elsie began to truly shine. She loved going on long walks with the kennel team — it quickly became her favourite time of day. That, or settling in for cuddles and belly rubs, which she absolutely adored.

Emma, our kennel supervisor, said: “Elsie could happily take belly rubs all day, a true big softie.”

Slowly, Elsie grew in confidence. The nervous girl who first arrived started to relax, trust, and enjoy life again. Watching her transformation was something truly special for everyone who met her.

Then, after five weeks in our care, Elsie’s forever people came along.

And finally, the girl who had once been abandoned and left behind found exactly where she belonged.

Her new family told us, “We just wanted to let you know how much she is loved and cared for already.”

We want to say a heartfelt thank you to Elsie’s adopters for choosing to adopt her and giving her the second chance she so deeply deserves. Thank you for seeing her, choosing her, and giving her the life she was always meant to have.

From abandoned and unwanted, to absolutely adored — this is why we do what we do.

Happy Tail, Elsie 🧡

Ruby Lost the Person She Loved Most

Ruby’s story begins with loss, but it doesn’t end there.

After the heartbreaking death of her owner, Ruby suddenly lost the person she loved and trusted most in the world. Everything familiar disappeared overnight, and this gentle little dog found herself entering rescue at nearly nine years old.

But even in the sadness of that beginning, something hopeful is taking shape: the chance for Ruby’s story to become one of healing, kindness, and second chances.

Ruby is a nearly 9-year-old Jackapom who came into our care after her owner sadly passed away. From the moment she arrived, it was clear she had been deeply loved. She is gentle, affectionate, and completely used to home life. She carries that quiet trust in people that only comes from years of being cherished.

Now, it is our turn to honour that love by giving Ruby the future she deserves.

Ruby’s Weight Is Seriously Affecting Her Health

Ruby’s story is not one of blame or judgement. She was clearly deeply loved, and her weight gain likely happened slowly through comfort, routine, and affection. What matters now is helping her move forward with kindness, healing, and the chance to feel well again.

When Ruby arrived in our care, she weighed 11.5kg with a Body Condition Score of over 9/9. For a dog her size, her ideal weight is around 5kg, with a healthy Body Condition Score of 4–5/9.

This means Ruby is not just slightly overweight. Her obesity is already placing dangerous strain on her joints, heart, breathing, and overall quality of life. Every step she takes is harder than it should be.

Research from the University of Liverpool found that overweight dogs can live up to 2.5 years less on average than dogs at a healthy weight. Those missing years are not just numbers. They are walks in the sunshine, peaceful naps, gentle cuddles, and precious time feeling comfortable in her own body again.

Ruby Has Already Started Her Weight Loss Journey

Since coming into our care, Ruby has already made an incredible start.

With a carefully managed diet plan, gentle exercise, and ongoing monitoring, she has already lost 1kg and now weighs 10.5kg. While that may sound small, it is a huge milestone for Ruby and proof that her future can change.

Part of Ruby’s recovery includes a specialist prescription weight loss food recommended by our veterinary team. This food is essential to help her lose weight safely and steadily while protecting her health.

Unfortunately, prescription veterinary diets are far more expensive than standard dog food, creating another ongoing cost in Ruby’s rehabilitation journey.

Ruby Also Urgently Needs Dental Surgery

Alongside her weight loss treatment, Ruby urgently needs extensive dental work, including several tooth extractions.

Untreated dental disease can cause constant pain, infection, and discomfort, affecting a dog’s ability to eat, sleep, and enjoy daily life. Sadly, many dogs suffer silently with dental pain for months or even years.

The cost of Ruby’s dental treatment at a standard veterinary practice could reach £800–£900, but this treatment is essential. It is not cosmetic or optional. It is the difference between ongoing pain and finally being comfortable again.

Help Dogs Like Ruby Get the Care They Deserve

Ruby cannot do this alone, and neither can we.

Every stage of her recovery depends entirely on the kindness of supporters who believe every rescue dog deserves comfort, dignity, and a second chance, no matter their age or condition.

When you donate, you are not just helping Ruby. You are helping dogs like Ruby — animals who arrive in rescue frightened, grieving, unwell, or in pain, and who desperately need compassionate care, veterinary treatment, and the chance to feel safe again.

Your support helps provide:

• Veterinary treatment
• Dental care
• Specialist diets
• Rehabilitation and recovery support
• Safety, comfort, and love for rescue dogs in need

Most importantly, your donation helps give vulnerable animals the chance to heal and enjoy a better future.

Donate Today to Help Rescue Dogs in Need

Ruby’s journey is already underway, but dogs like her still need your help every day.

Please donate today and help us continue giving rescue dogs the second chances they so deeply deserve.

Text RUBY to 70470 to donate £1.

Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.

At RAIN, we are always looking for innovative ways to raise vital funds for dogs and cats in need while building meaningful partnerships with businesses that share our values. That’s why we are delighted to announce our new partnership with Not Just Travel — a collaboration that allows supporters to book their dream holidays while helping vulnerable animals at the same time.

Travel That Gives Back

Through this exciting partnership, every holiday booked through Karen and Antonio at Not Just Travel will help support the work of RAIN.

When supporters book through the partnership:

• RAIN receives 10% of the commission earned from the booking
• Customers pay no additional fees
• Holidays are fully ABTA and ATOL protected
• Access is available to more than 450 travel suppliers, including Jet2, TUI, EasyJet and many specialist providers

Whether you are planning a family holiday, luxury escape, city break, cruise or pet-friendly getaway, your booking could help provide food, veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and safe shelter for rescue animals waiting for their second chance.

About Karen & Antonio

Karen and Antonio are the passionate travel experts behind the partnership. Eight years ago, they relocated from Australia to Nottingham alongside their beloved pets, Cosmo the Lagotto Romagnolo and Bella their rescue cat.

After settling in the UK, they launched their Not Just Travel franchise and have since helped countless customers create unforgettable travel experiences around the world. Their family later grew with the addition of Romeo, who quickly became part of the family.

As dedicated animal lovers, supporting an animal rescue charity through their business felt like the perfect fit.

Supporting Animals Beyond Fundraising

This partnership is about far more than holidays.

Karen and Antonio will also be helping raise awareness for animals currently searching for homes by regularly featuring RAIN rescue dogs and cats across their social media platforms. They will also support fundraising campaigns, raffles and awareness events throughout the year, while promoting more pet-friendly travel opportunities for animal lovers.

By combining a passion for travel with a commitment to animal welfare, this partnership creates new opportunities to help more animals find safety and loving homes.

Thank You to Not Just Travel

We would like to say a huge thank you to Karen and Antonio for choosing to support RAIN through their business.

Partnerships like this make a genuine difference to the animals we care for every single day. Their enthusiasm, generosity and commitment to helping rescue animals is something we are incredibly grateful for, and we are excited to work together to create lasting impact.

By simply booking a holiday, supporters can now help transform the lives of dogs and cats in desperate need of care and compassion.

Book Your Next Holiday and Support RAIN

Book your next holiday and help rescue animals at the same time!

Follow this link to book your holiday today: https://notjustholidays.com/rainrescue

Or call Karen & Antonio directly on 07397 802770 ✈️

There’s a real buzz of excitement at our brand-new RAIN Rescue site at Misson, and we’re thrilled to finally share another exciting milestone with our supporters and local community.

Our brand-new signs are officially up, and seeing our iconic RAIN orange proudly displayed high on the building is an incredible moment for everyone involved. For the first time, the centre is truly starting to look and feel like RAIN Rescue’s new home.

We’d also like to say a massive thank you to Magenta for creating and installing our fantastic new signage. The signs look amazing and have helped bring our vision for the new animal rescue and community centre to life.

While there’s still work to do behind the scenes, we’re making fantastic progress every day. Our team has been working hard to prepare the space so we can soon open our doors and welcome supporters, adopters, volunteers, and the wider community into our new centre.

This move marks an exciting new chapter for RAIN Rescue as we continue our mission to help animals in need and support pet owners across the region. The new site will allow us to grow our services, create a welcoming community space, and help even more animals find safe and loving homes.

We know many of you are eager to visit, and we can’t wait to share more updates soon — including details about our official opening date and upcoming open day event.

To make sure you don’t miss any news, updates, or announcements, please make sure you’re opted in to receive updates from RAIN Rescue. You can opt in here

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We’re so proud of how far we’ve come, and we can’t wait to welcome you to our secound home very soon.