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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.

After 14 weeks in RAIN’s care, we are overjoyed to share that Chika, our beautiful British Shorthair, has finally found her forever home.
Chika’s journey to happiness wasn’t an easy one, but it’s a story that highlights both the resilience of rescue cats and the incredible impact of foster care.
Chika’s Story
Chika came into RAIN under very sad circumstances after her beloved owner passed away. Understandably, she was confused, scared, and overwhelmed by everything that had changed so suddenly in her world.
When she first arrived, it was clear she found the cattery environment too much to cope with. Because of how worried and shut down she was, we made the decision to place her into foster care so she could feel safe, supported, and begin to decompress.
She went to live with our wonderful foster carers, Sam and Andy, who gave her the time, patience, and kindness she needed to start coming out of her shell.
Sam said: “She thrives on fuss and tuna!!! and will make the most loving companion in the right home environment.”
And they were absolutely right.

The Power of Foster Care
While Chika waited for her perfect home, she spent 14 long weeks in foster care with Sam and Andy. During that time, they worked tirelessly to help her build confidence, feel safe again, and show her true personality.
Foster care is absolutely vital to the work we do at RAIN. Without foster carers, cats like Chika would struggle in a busy rescue environment where they cannot always show their best selves.
Because Chika was able to go into foster, another rescue cat was also able to take her place in the cattery and receive the care they needed. Foster carers quite literally save more than one life at a time.

The Perfect Match
After 14 weeks, the right application finally came through. Chika met her new family, who immediately understood that she would need time, patience, and gentle encouragement to settle in properly. They were fully committed to giving her exactly what she needed — a calm, understanding home where she could continue to grow in confidence.
A Happy Update
We are delighted to share that Chika is settling into her forever home beautifully.
Her new family told us:
“She’s settled in amazingly and we’re so so proud of her. She was a shy girl at first and only came out from under the sofa for an explore in the evening and only came out for food when she was left alone in the flat. For the past couple of days she’s been out more than she’s been under the sofa, only hiding if anything spooks her. Even then, she comes out when she’s called, will run out and stare at me for her food, she’ll play with anything she can get her paws on and is absolutely loving fuss from both of us. She’s even come out for fusses when we have guests round and played with people she’s never met!”

A New Chapter for Chika
Chika’s journey is a beautiful reminder that every animal deserves time, patience, and the chance to feel safe again. Thanks to foster care, she was given that opportunity — and thanks to her new family, she now has the loving forever home she always deserved.
A huge thank you to Sam and Andy for everything they did to help Chika on her journey, and to everyone who supports fostering at RAIN. Without you, stories like this simply wouldn’t be possible.
Could You Be a Foster Carer?
Chika’s story is only possible because of foster carers like Sam and Andy. Fostering gives animals the chance to decompress, heal, and show their true personalities in a home environment — and it directly helps us save more lives by freeing up space in our rescue.
We are always in need of more foster carers. Whether you can offer short-term or longer-term support, you could make a life-changing difference to a rescue animal just like Chika.
Click here to find out more about becoming a foster carer with RAIN and take the first step towards changing a life today🧡
May is Vet Nurse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognising the incredible work of Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) who care for animals every single day.
At RAIN, our veterinary team plays a vital role in helping rescue animals receive the treatment, care, and compassion they need before finding loving homes. This month, we’re celebrating Tash, our dedicated Registered Veterinary Nurse, and highlighting the important work veterinary nurses do behind the scenes.
What Does a Registered Veterinary Nurse Do?
Registered Veterinary Nurses are essential to animal welfare and veterinary care. They support animals through every stage of treatment — from admission and surgery to recovery and rehabilitation.
At RAIN, Tash keeps our vet room running smoothly day to day and provides hands-on care to animals in need.
On surgical days, Tash is there from start to finish:
- Admitting patients
- Preparing animals for procedures
- Monitoring patients under anaesthetic
- Supporting recovery after surgery
- Ensuring animals are safe and comfortable before returning to their families
Her role is crucial in making sure every animal receives the highest standard of veterinary care.

Supporting Rescue Animals Through Veterinary Care
Many animals arriving at RAIN require urgent medical treatment, ongoing monitoring, or recovery support. Having an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse on site helps ensure animals receive the care they need quickly and safely.
Veterinary nurses not only provide medical support, but also comfort frightened or vulnerable animals during stressful situations. Their compassion can make a huge difference to an animal’s recovery journey.

Celebrating Vet Nurse Awareness Month
Vet Nurse Awareness Month helps raise awareness of the important work veterinary nurses do within animal rescue organisations, veterinary practices, and hospitals across the UK.
At RAIN, we are incredibly grateful for Tash and the dedication she brings to helping rescue animals every single day.
Thank you, Tash, for everything you do 🧡
If you’d like to support the work we do for rescue animals, keep following RAIN for more stories from our team and the animals in our care.

Our CEO Trish, Centre Manager Sophie, Chair of Trustees Clare, and Vet Nurse Tash recently attended the 2026 Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) Conference.
It was a fantastic opportunity for the team to step away from day-to-day operations and connect with colleagues from across the animal welfare sector. The conference brought together rescue organisations, rehoming centres, and professionals who are all working towards the same shared goal: improving the lives of animals in need.
Across the event, the team gained fresh insights into current best practice, explored new ideas to support rescue and rehoming work, and took part in valuable discussions around the challenges and opportunities facing the sector today. These conversations are vital in helping organisations like RAIN continue to grow, adapt, and provide the best possible care for animals.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the conference was the chance to meet peers from other organisations, exchange experiences, and celebrate the incredible achievements happening across the rescue community. It’s always inspiring to see the dedication, innovation, and compassion that exists within the sector.
We are excited to bring these new ideas and learnings back to RAIN and put them into practice as we continue working to support animals in need and the people who care for them.
A huge thank you to ADCH for hosting such a valuable event—we’re already looking forward to the next one.
Every day in rescue, we see situations most people never have to witness.
Animals arriving frightened, injured, abandoned, or neglected. It is the steady reality of rescue work, and it is rarely tidy or simple.
A special boy named Eric
We’d like to introduce you to a special boy — Eric.
At around nine months old, Eric should still have been enjoying the carefree world of kittenhood. Instead, he arrived in our care in pain, with a severely damaged eye.
After careful examination, our veterinary team made the difficult but necessary decision to remove it — the only way to prevent further pain, infection, and suffering, and to give him a life free from constant discomfort.
We do not know how Eric was injured.
We only know the condition he arrived in, and it sits heavily with us — the thought of what he may already have endured before he ever reached safety.

This is becoming more common
What is hardest is that situations like Eric’s are becoming more frequent.
More and more animals are coming into rescue care injured, unwell, frightened, or simply discarded when they are no longer wanted. Many need urgent veterinary treatment and ongoing care at a time when rescue resources are already stretched to their limits.
Behind every case is a life
For our team, these are never just “cases”.
They are animals who have already been through so much and are now relying entirely on rescue to make things better from here.
Our staff and volunteers work tirelessly, often under immense pressure, to give every animal the care, treatment, and compassion they deserve.
Every decision is made with their welfare at the centre, and every effort is focused on giving them the best possible chance at a happier future.

We cannot do it alone
Your support helps us act in moments like Eric’s — when an animal arrives in pain and there is no time to wait. It means we can say yes to emergency treatment, yes to surgery, yes to comfort, and yes to a future that otherwise wouldn’t exist for them.
Eric didn’t get to choose what happened to him. But with your help, we can choose what happens next for animals like him.
Please, if you can, make a donation today. Somewhere right now, another animal is arriving just like Eric — frightened, hurting, and completely dependent on rescue to change everything.
Thank you for standing beside them when they have no one else.

Ways You Can Help Our Rescue
Text K to 70480 to donate £1
(Text messages cost £1 plus 1 standard rate message)
Create a monthly payment by sponsoring a cat pod
Send a cheque addressed to RAIN at
Braken Hill Lane, Misson, Doncaster, DN10 6FA
Phoebe was just 3 years and 11 months old when she first came into RAIN, but even something as simple as breathing was a struggle for her.
She arrived with us due to a change in family circumstances. Her previous owner made the heartbreaking but responsible decision to reach out for help when they knew they could no longer give Phoebe everything she needed. There is absolutely no judgment here — asking for help was the right thing to do.
But it quickly became clear that Phoebe needed urgent care.
Struggling to breathe
Phoebe suffered with severe Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a condition sadly common in flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs. Because of the way these dogs have been bred, their airways are restricted, making every breath a challenge.
When Phoebe got excited, her breathing became heavy and laboured. Sometimes it became too much for her little body and she would simply flop onto the floor, exhausted, desperately trying to catch her breath.
To imagine Phoebe’s reality was to imagine trying to live your life breathing through a straw.

More than just breathing
Alongside her breathing difficulties, Phoebe arrived with painful ear infections, inflamed skin and severe allergies that left her constantly uncomfortable and itchy. She needed veterinary care, including steroids to help calm her skin, and daily cleaning of her facial folds to prevent infection.
But her breathing was — and remained — the most urgent concern.

Life-changing surgery
Our vets confirmed that Phoebe needed BOAS surgery to widen her airways and give her the chance to breathe properly for the first time in her life.
The surgery cost £1,019 through Animal Trust, alongside ongoing treatment for her skin and ears. For a small rescue like RAIN, these costs were significant — but Phoebe’s wellbeing came first.
Thanks to your incredible support, we were able to say yes.
Phoebe received her life-changing surgery, and it completely transformed her future.

Recovery begins
Phoebe recovered safely with us at the centre after her operation.
She needed to take things very slowly while her throat and airways healed, as swelling was expected after surgery. Full recovery took time and careful monitoring.
But even in those early days, we saw something incredible — Phoebe was breathing more comfortably.
Something she had struggled with for so long was finally becoming easier.
Phoebe’s forever home
And then came the happiest chapter of her journey…
Phoebe found her forever home.
Her new family gave her everything she had always needed — patience, understanding, and so much love.
They shared this beautiful update with us:
“She’s added a new lease of life into the house. She’s gentle, affectionate, great with kids and just wants to play with every dog.
She’s made us all so happy. Her walks are getting longer, and she’s even sleeping fully on her back now… sometimes not even snoring!
She’s fitted in like she’s always been with us. Everyone stops to fuss over her! I cannot thank you all enough. You’ve made us all so happy, and Phoebe seems really happy too 😊
Emma and Sophie, members of the RAIN Welfare Team, have been absolutely amazing. Sophie was so understanding, professional and kind. She made us feel welcome and heard and was always happy to answer my questions. You can truly see the love you have for all the animals. It was a fantastic, positive experience — Sophie, you are a credit to RAIN. You’ve made our family complete.”
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Why we do what we do
Phoebe’s journey is exactly why RAIN exists.
Because no dog should struggle for every breath. And because, with the right care and support, lives can be completely transformed.
Phoebe didn’t just receive treatment — she received a second chance.
And now she gets to live the life she was always meant to have.
Thank you
This story was only possible because of you.
Your support gave Phoebe her surgery, her recovery, and her future.
From all of us — and from Phoebe — thank you for helping change her life.
We urgently need help: abandoned animals are arriving faster than we can cope
In over 24 years of rescuing homeless cats and dogs, we’ve never faced a situation like this.
Right now, we have more than 60 animals in our care — and a waiting list of over 100 more desperately needing help. The scale of abandonment is overwhelming, and every day brings new emergencies we simply cannot ignore.
Just recently, we introduced you to Elsie, a beautiful lurcher found tied to a lamp post. And now, we’ve welcomed another heartbreaking case…
Meet Kiwi and her babies
Kiwi, a young cat believed to be around two years old, arrived with her tiny kittens — Lychee, Mango and Pomegranate.
They were discovered dumped together in a bag on a building site.
The kittens were only days old. Fragile, helpless, and completely dependent on their mum in the most unimaginable circumstances.
Trapped inside the bag, Kiwi couldn’t eat, drink, or properly care for her babies. When they arrived with us, they were all in a dangerously vulnerable state — and the kittens were covered in fleas, which can be life-threatening at such a young age.
Thankfully, they are now safe.
Despite everything she’s endured, Kiwi is gentle and trusting — as though she knows she’s finally out of danger… perhaps even experiencing kindness for the first time.

Make a donation here
Why we need your help
Every abandoned litter. Every emergency rescue. Every life we save puts enormous pressure on our small charity — emotionally, physically, and financially.
But we will never turn our backs on animals like Kiwi and her babies.
The reality is, they are not the first — and heartbreakingly, they won’t be the last.
You can make a difference today
Your support could help provide:
- Urgent veterinary care
- Flea treatment and medication
- Nutritious food
- Round-the-clock care for vulnerable animals
Every single donation helps us continue saying “yes” when animals need us most.
Please give today if you can — and help families like Kiwi’s get the second chance they deserve.
You can donate today in any of these ways:
• Give through JustGiving: https://checkout.justgiving.com/mmxw48u1c9
• Donate a value of a meal: https://rainrescue.co.uk/…/a-meal-for-a-rain-rescue-cat/
• Text KIWI to 70480 to donate £1
Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps us keep saying yes when abandoned animals need us most. 🧡
Please donate if you can, and share this page to help Kiwi and so many others like her.
It’s tick season. While ticks can be found on pets all year round in the UK, they become far more active in the warmer months when dogs and cats are spending more time outdoors. Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that attach themselves to animals (and sometimes people), feeding on their blood and potentially causing irritation or spreading disease. As they are now out and about more, it’s important to stay vigilant and know how to protect your pets.
🔍 Where to Check Your Pet for Ticks
Ticks can be surprisingly easy to miss, especially when they’re small or hiding in thick fur. One of the most common signs is spotting a small, dark bump on your pet’s skin that wasn’t there before. As ticks feed, they swell and become more noticeable, often looking like a tiny greyish-brown lump attached to the skin.
You might also notice your pet scratching, licking, or nibbling at a particular area more than usual. Regularly running your hands over your pet after walks is one of the best ways to check. If you feel anything unusual or see a small, firm bump, part the fur to take a closer look—it could be a tick that needs removing promptly.
After walks or outdoor play, always check your pet thoroughly. Ticks love warm, hidden areas such as:
- Around the ears and eyes
- Under collars
- Between the toes
- Under the legs (armpits)
- Groin area
- Around the tail and rear
- Along the neck and shoulders

How to Safely Remove a Tick
Never pull a tick off with your fingers or twist it, as this can leave parts behind and increase the risk of infection.
- Use a proper tick removal tool from your vet or pet shop.
- Slide the tool under the tick, close to your pet’s skin.
- Gently twist and pull upwards until the tick comes away completely.
- Dispose of the tick safely by sealing it in tissue and flushing it, or placing it in a sealed bag in the bin.
- Clean the bite area with pet-safe antiseptic and wash your hands thoroughly.

How to Prevent Ticks on Pets
Prevention is always better than cure. Protect your pets with these simple steps:
- Use vet-recommended tick prevention treatments (spot-ons, tablets or collars)
- Keep your garden tidy and grass short
- Avoid long grass and dense woodland during peak tick season (spring to autumn)
- Groom your pet regularly to spot ticks early


⚠️ Tick-Borne Diseases: Why It Matters
Ticks can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, which may affect both pets and humans. Early detection and prompt removal are key to reducing risk. If your pet seems unwell after a tick bite, always contact your vet for advice.
Keep Your Pet Safe and Tick-Free
Regular checks, prevention, and quick removal can make all the difference. A few minutes of care after walks helps keep tails wagging and whiskers twitching — tick-free and happy!
Stay vigilant and protect your pets year-round.
We have lots of exciting news to share with you, and we can not wait to bring you along on this next chapter of our journey.
Things are very busy over at our brand-new Misson site, and we are delighted to see everything coming together. While work is still underway, every day brings us one step closer to opening our doors and welcoming you all.
As we move forward, we want to be open with you — we are taking a phased and mindful approach to developing the site. This means we will be opening areas step by step, ensuring everything is completed to a high standard and always with the wellbeing of our animals at the heart of every decision.
Importantly, while this development is underway, our Rotherham centre is still fully open and operational. Moving forward, Rain Rescue will operate across two sites, allowing us to expand our reach and support even more animals and people in need.
With the increased space and land at our new site, we are also looking ahead to the future of Rain Rescue. Our aim is to gradually expand the support we can offer, enabling us to help more rescue animals — including rabbits and equine — alongside the dogs and cats already in our care.
A key feature of the new site will be our on-site shop and café — the Rain Café.
This will provide a welcoming space where you and your dogs can relax and enjoy fresh coffee, cakes, and quality food, all while supporting the animals here at Rain Rescue.
Set in the countryside and surrounded by wildlife, the site offers a peaceful environment, with scenic walks and public footpaths leading directly to us. It will be an ideal place to meet friends, enjoy the outdoors, and spend time in a setting that supports a meaningful cause.
The café will be the first part of the site to open, as part of this phased approach, and we will keep you updated as progress continues. We very much look forward to welcoming you.
As Rain Rescue moves into this new chapter, we are also introducing an updated logo.
We are proud to be keeping our much-loved raindrop at the heart of our identity. Our main logo now features the raindrop with a paw and a hand, symbolising our commitment to supporting both animals and people through every storm.
You will also begin to see variations of the raindrop, representing key areas of our work:
• Our Animal Centre
• Veterinary services
• Shop
• Café

In keeping with our mindful approach, the introduction of our new logo will also be phased. Charity resources such as uniforms, literature, and signage will be updated gradually, only as items require replacement due to natural wear and tear. This ensures we remain responsible with our resources while transitioning to our new identity.
It is the same Rain Rescue you know and trust — with a refreshed identity that reflects our future.
Thank you for always standing by us. Your support, commitment, and belief in what we do are what drive us forward every single day. It is your compassion and passion for animal welfare that fuels our work and makes everything we are building possible.
We are incredibly grateful to have you with us on this journey. Together, we are creating something truly special for the animals in our care and the community around us.
– The Rain Team
As the days get longer and the flowers start to bloom, we are reminded of the beauty of spring. The season brings a fresh start, with new life blossoming all around us, from vibrant daffodils to pastel Easter eggs. However, while spring is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the season, it’s important to be mindful of the potential dangers it poses to our furry friends.

Spring is full of life, but it also brings with it some hidden hazards, especially when it comes to certain plants and Easter treats. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to keep your pets safe this spring, covering the dangers of toxic plants and the risks associated with Easter chocolates.
The Dangers of Spring Plants
Spring brings a wealth of beautiful flowers and plants into bloom, but many of these can pose a risk to pets if ingested. Some of the most common springtime plants are toxic to both cats and dogs, and it’s essential to know which ones to avoid.
Daffodils
Daffodils are one of the most popular spring flowers, but they can be highly toxic to both cats and dogs. For cats, the entire daffodil plant is dangerous, especially the flower and stem. Dogs are at risk primarily from the bulb, which contains compounds that can cause serious health issues.

Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhoea
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Abdominal pain
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Convulsions
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A drop in blood pressure
If your pet ingests any part of a daffodil, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately.
Tulips
Another spring flower to watch out for is the tulip. The bulb of a tulip is especially toxic to dogs, while cats are also at risk if they consume the plant. Symptoms of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Lilies
While beautiful, lilies are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts of lily pollen or petals can cause kidney failure in cats. Symptoms of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, and loss of appetite. It’s crucial to keep lilies out of your home, especially if you have cats.
Other Toxic Plants to Be Aware Of:
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Hyacinths
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Crocus
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Azaleas
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Oleander
If you are unsure whether a plant is safe for your pets, it’s always better to be cautious and keep them out of reach. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet immediately.
The Risks of Chocolate and Easter Treats
Easter is a time for indulging in chocolate eggs and sweets, but it’s important to remember that chocolate is highly toxic to dogs and cats. Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that pets cannot process effectively. While we may enjoy our Easter treats, sharing chocolate with our pets can have serious health consequences.

Why Chocolate Is Dangerous for Pets
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Dogs: Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is extremely toxic to dogs. The theobromine in chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid heart rate, seizures, and even death if consumed in large quantities.
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Cats: While cats are less likely to indulge in chocolate, it’s still dangerous for them. Ingesting chocolate can lead to similar symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and tremors.
What to Do If Your Pet Eats Chocolate:
If your pet consumes chocolate, it’s crucial to act quickly. The level of toxicity depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as well as your pet’s size. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is, as it contains higher levels of theobromine.
If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your vet immediately. They may recommend inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the toxin.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe This Spring and Easter
Here are some practical steps you can take to ensure your pets stay safe during the spring and Easter season:
-
Keep Toxic Plants Out of Reach:
Be aware of the plants in your garden and home that could be harmful to your pets. Consider keeping your pets indoors or in areas where you can control what plants they have access to. -
Monitor Easter Treats:
If you’re hosting an Easter gathering, make sure chocolate eggs and sweets are out of reach of curious pets. Guests should also be reminded not to share chocolate with animals. -
Know the Signs of Poisoning:
Familiarise yourself with the signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, excessive drooling, tremors, or seizures. If you see any of these signs, take your pet to the vet immediately. -
Choose Pet-Safe Plants:
Opt for pet-friendly plants like sunflowers, marigolds, or pet-safe herbs if you’re adding greenery to your home this spring. -
Secure Your Easter Eggs:
Before you start an Easter egg hunt, make sure your pets are in another room to avoid any temptation. After the hunt, double-check to ensure no chocolate eggs are left behind.
Enjoy Spring Safely
Spring is a season of renewal, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your pets from potential dangers. By keeping toxic plants and chocolate out of their reach, you can ensure that both your pets and your family enjoy a happy, healthy spring and Easter.
Let’s celebrate this beautiful time of year while keeping our furry friends safe and sound!

Five months ago, Panini was living a very different life.
He came into our care as a stray — navigating the streets alone, never truly knowing the comfort of safety, warmth or love. We don’t know everything about his past, but we do know he hadn’t yet experienced the stability every cat deserves.
He spent just two weeks with us at Rain Rescue. Two weeks of cosy beds, full tummies, and gentle reassurance — and then his forever human came to meet him. It was an instant connection, and he went home to start his new life.
Fast forward five months, and we’ve received the most heart-warming update. Panini has fully embraced home life — and by all accounts, he is running the household beautifully.
He’s had a few memorable outdoor adventures (including some classic zoomies in the garden!) and has quickly settled into the joys of home life. He’s incredibly chatty, and his owner says full conversations happen daily — which we just love!
Panini is affectionate on his own terms, enjoying cuddles and leaping onto his owner’s lap for some dedicated mummy time. He’s cautious with visitors, but with those he trusts, he’s a bundle of love and personality.
From stray cat surviving on the streets…
To confident, cuddly, and slightly mischievous king of his home.
This is exactly why we do what we do.
Thank you to Panini’s owner for giving him the love and security he had never known — and for sharing this beautiful update with us.
Happy Tails, Panini. You truly deserve every second of this new life 🧡


At Rain Rescue, fostering isn’t just temporary care — it’s a lifeline. Right now, we urgently need compassionate people to open their homes to dogs and cats who desperately need a safe, loving space.
Every week, more animals come to us needing help — some abandoned or left behind, others handed over due to personal hardship or changes in circumstance. Our centre is often at full capacity, and while we do everything we can to meet demand, the need is outpacing the space we have. That’s where foster carers can make a huge difference.
Meet some of our amazing foster carers
Curious about what fostering is really like? Meet some of our amazing Rain Rescue dog foster carers in this short video and hear what it’s like to welcome a rescue dog into your home.
Why Fostering Matters Right Now
“When the dogs and cats come into us, they are more often than not scared, have health problems, and have never had the love and care they need to thrive,” says Trish Spargo, Rain Rescue CEO.
For many animals, life before rescue hasn’t been easy. Some have lived outdoors in all weathers, others have come from homes where they were neglected or mistreated. Some simply find themselves lost and without anyone to care for them.
Although our rescue centre provides a warm bed, good food, and veterinary support, it’s not the same as a calm, loving home. That’s what makes fostering so important — and so transformative for the animals who need it most.
Sophie, our Centre Manager, explains:
“Fostering allows the animals who are struggling the most in kennels to have some home comforts, feel safe and loved whilst we search for their new forever home.”

What Foster Carers Do
Kennels are a temporary solution, but not all animals cope well in them — especially dogs and cats who are nervous, older, or recovering from illness or injury.
A foster carer offers something more personal: a peaceful space where a pet can rest, feel secure, and begin to trust again. Some animals need just a few weeks, others a little longer. Some foster placements may be short term, offering a brief but vital break from the shelter, while others might be long term, providing ongoing support until the animal is ready for their forever home.
During that time, a foster home helps them rebuild their confidence and get ready to move on to their new family.
“When you foster, you are saving two lives — the foster animal and the one you make space for,” says Trish.
That space is precious. Every time a dog or cat moves into a foster home, it means we can welcome another into our centre — often one who’s been waiting for help elsewhere.
Why We Need Dog Foster Carers Now
We always need foster carers for both cats and dogs — but right now, the demand for dog fosters is especially high.
Dogs often need more hands-on care, regular walks, and human interaction. They may be underconfident, energetic, or simply not used to being left alone. While they wait for the right forever home, a foster home gives them the structure and comfort they need.
Every foster home for a dog means:
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A break from a kennel environment
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The chance to relax and build trust
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Space for us to take in more dogs needing help
Some dogs need quiet homes with no other pets. Others might enjoy the company of a resident dog or a fosterer who enjoys long walks. We’ll work closely with you to match the right dog to your situation — and we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.
How You Can Help
If you’ve got room in your home — and your heart — you could offer a dog or cat the fresh start they deserve.
Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience. It gives you the chance to make a real difference, to see animals grow and change in your care, and to be part of a supportive rescue community.
We provide everything you need — food, equipment, vet care and advice — so you’re never on your own. Whether you’re able to foster for a short time or longer-term, whether you’re home most of the day or have a pet-friendly lifestyle, fostering could be the perfect fit.
Apply to foster today or get in touch to ask questions and find out more.
Your time, care, and kindness could mean everything to a dog or cat who’s still waiting to feel safe again.

Arnold was just eight months old — still only a baby — yet he had already experienced more confusion and heartbreak than any young cat ever should.
He had been left at a vet practice, and heartbreakingly, his owner never came back for him. The vets tried everything they could: calling, messaging, and waiting the full seven days. But no matter how many times they reached out, there was no reply. No one was coming for him.
Imagine being so young, so confused… and feeling completely unwanted. Not knowing what else to do, the vets called us — hoping we could give Arnold the safety, love, and compassion he desperately needed. And of course, we said yes.
When Arnold arrived in our care, we also tried once more to contact his owner, as we were legally obliged to do. But this still resulted in Arnold staying with us, safe and cared for.
While Arnold wasn’t abandoned on the streets, he had still been left behind — left somewhere his owner believed was safe. His story is a reminder of why rescue shelters exist: to protect, comfort, and care for pets in moments of crisis.

A Forever Home for Arnold
Arnold’s journey took a turn for the better when a kind lady read his story on our social media. She knew immediately she could offer Arnold a home full of love, where he would never be forgotten or left behind again.
When she came to meet him, it was love at first sight. The bond was instant, and Arnold officially joined his new family. Just a few days after adopting him, his new owners shared:
“This is absolutely Arnold’s forever home. He’s safe, adored, and clearly already in charge. We can’t imagine life without him now, and we’re so grateful to everyone who helped bring this beautiful boy into our lives.”
The Heart of Rescue
Arnold is thriving in his forever home. He is now safe, loved, and cherished. His story reminded us why rescue exists: to step in when pets are abandoned, confused, or forgotten, and to give them a second chance at life, happiness, and love. Every life matters, and every pet deserves a home where they feel wanted and secure.
Arnold’s journey from uncertainty to belonging is a beautiful example of what love, patience, and rescue can achieve.

Brock’s Journey: From Kennels to Forever Home at Rain Rescue
Sometimes, the longest waits lead to the most beautiful endings — and Brock’s story is one we’ll never forget.
Brock’s Start at Rain Rescue
Brock came into our care at just 7 months old, through no fault of his own. His previous owners were moving house, and sadly their new landlord wouldn’t allow pets. Still very much a baby, Brock arrived at Rain Rescue needing stability, love, and a second chance.
From the moment he stepped through our doors, Brock stole hearts. He was affectionate, playful, and bursting with puppy energy — always ready for a fuss from our team. As a young Lurcher, he had the perfect mix of sweetness and spirit, and we truly believed his stay with us would be a short one.
When Kennel Life Becomes Too Much
But life in the kennels isn’t easy, especially for young and sensitive dogs like Brock.
The noise, the routines, the waiting — it all became overwhelming. Day by day, kennel life began to chip away at his confidence, and it was heartbreaking to see how stressed he became. We did everything we could to help him shine, including naming him Animal of the Month, but still the right home didn’t come along.
Days turned into weeks, and before we knew it, 69 days had passed. Nine long weeks of waiting, hoping, and wondering when Brock would finally get the family he deserved.
The Day Hope Arrived
Then, one special day, hope arrived.
An application came through from a lovely couple who seemed like the perfect match for Brock. We invited them to meet him — hearts full of hope, but tinged with nerves.
And from the moment they met, it was magic.
Brock’s tail wagged, his eyes sparkled, and it was instantly clear — he had found his people.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
Saying goodbye to Brock was bittersweet. After so long in our care, he had become part of the Rain Rescue family, and watching him leave tugged at our hearts.
But seeing him walk out the door with a family who adored him made everything worthwhile.
His adopters later told us:
“Our favourite part about having Brock is that our family feels complete. He’s fully become our baby, spoilt to death, and we could sit and watch him for hours. He’s the friendliest dog we’ve ever known, greeting everyone with joy. His bursts of energy around the house are hysterical, and his sassy little personality means he’ll always take up your space if he wants cuddles!”
Brock’s Forever Home
After 69 days of waiting, loving, and hoping, Brock finally found his forever home.
His journey is a powerful reminder that even when the road is long and the wait feels endless, every dog deserves a happy ending — and Brock’s is one we’ll always hold close.
If you’re considering dog adoption, stories like Brock’s show just how life-changing rescue can be — for dogs and humans alike.

By displaying a poster in your staffroom, local post office, community centre, café, supermarket, or anywhere with a public notice board, you can help people learn about Rain Rescue, make a donation, or even adopt an animal waiting for a forever home.
The more we share their stories, the more lives we can change together. Thank you for helping us make a difference!
You can keep checking for updated versions and download our posters here – www.rainrescue.co.uk/display-our-posters

Arthur’s Story: From Abandoned to Hoping for Love
Arthur is a 2-year-old cat who faced a very tough start in life. He was abandoned in someone’s garden and left to fend for himself. Alone, frightened, and vulnerable, Arthur faced traffic, hunger, other animals, and the harsh reality of life outdoors — with no idea why he’d been left behind.
Thankfully, a kind person noticed Arthur was alone. They made sure he was fed and looked after as best they could. Arthur would come to them for food and was known to be a friendly boy — not feral, just lost and trying to survive.
Knowing Arthur deserved more than life on the streets, he was brought to Rain Rescue, where he could be safe, warm, and cared for.
Life in Rescue
Arthur has now been in our care for over 50 days. He is safe, warm, and no longer trying to fend for himself — but rescue life is still challenging for him. The sudden change from outdoor freedom to an enclosed, unfamiliar environment has been overwhelming. The sounds, smells, and routines of rescue life have caused Arthur to shut down, and he is struggling to adjust.
Arthur isn’t aggressive. He isn’t wild. He’s simply frightened.
Before coming to us, the kind person who rescued Arthur saw how loving he could be. They said he gives gentle head butts and enjoys the occasional fuss. But now, fear has taken over, and he’s withdrawn into himself.
At Rain Rescue, Arthur receives regular meals, shelter from the cold, and gentle reassurance. Each day, our team reminds him that humans can be kind — that hands can be gentle, voices can be soft, and trust can be rebuilt.
He still startles. He’s still nervous. But with patience and understanding, we hope Arthur will feel safe again and allow his loving nature to shine through.

How You Can Help
This Valentine’s, during our month of love, you can help show animals like Arthur that they are loved.
Even £1 can make a difference, providing care, comfort, and compassion to cats and dogs who are struggling in rescue while they wait for their forever homes. Donations can be made here.
Could You Offer Arthur a Forever Home?
Arthur would likely thrive in a home with outdoor space, such as a farm or stable, where he can explore safely and live life on his own terms.
If you think you could give Arthur a loving home, you can apply to adopt him here.
Together, we can help rescue cats like Arthur feel safe, loved, and valued — and find the forever homes they deserve.

Do you love animals? 🐾 Have you ever wanted to make a real difference in the lives of dogs and cats in need? At Rain Rescue, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do — and we’d love for you to join our family!
Why Volunteer with Rain Rescue?
Volunteering with us isn’t just about helping animals — it’s about being part of a community that cares. By giving your time, you’ll:
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Help rescue, care for, and socialise dogs and cats
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Support fundraising initiatives and community events
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Learn new skills in animal care and welfare
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Make lifelong friendships with fellow animal lovers
Every hour you spend with us directly impacts the animals in our care. From playful pups to shy cats finding their confidence, your support helps them thrive and find their forever homes.
What Volunteer Opportunities Are Available?
We welcome volunteers of all ages and experience levels. Some of the ways you can help include:
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Animal Care: Feeding, grooming, walking dogs, and socialising cats
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Fundraising Support: Helping at events, Bucket collections, challenges, or promoting campaigns
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Admin Support: Helping with social media, donations, and other behind-the-scenes tasks
No matter how you help, every contribution makes a difference.
How to Become a Volunteer
Joining our Rain Rescue family is simple:
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Apply online: Fill out our volunteer form via our volunteering page.
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Attend an induction: Meet our friendly team, learn about our rescue animals, and get all the guidance you need to start volunteering confidently
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Start making a difference: Begin volunteering and enjoy every tail wag and purr along the way!
Be Part of Something Special
Volunteering is more than just giving your time — it’s about being part of a compassionate community that changes lives. At Rain Rescue, every act of kindness, big or small, helps animals get the second chance they deserve.
🐶 Ready to make a difference? Apply today and join our Rain Rescue family!

Meet Nova – a tiny Dachshund who’s been through more than any little dog should. Abandoned, hungry, and terrified, she had every reason to be afraid of the world. But thanks to Rain Rescue and the kindness of supporters like you, Nova’s life has completely changed.
Today, she’s safe, loved, and thriving in her forever home—playing with her favourite toy, snuggling up with her family, and learning that the world can be a happy place.

You Can Make Stories Like Nova’s Possible
Every week, our Rain Rescue Lottery helps give abandoned animals a second chance at life. By playing, you’ll:
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Support rescues, medical care, and loving homes for dogs and cats like Nova.
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Be in with a chance to win big each week.
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Make a real difference with just one small act.
Click here to play and help animals like Nova feel safe again
Why Your Support Matters
When Nova arrived at Rain Rescue, she was trembling, underweight, and scared of every sound. With patient care, love, and gentle guidance, she slowly learned that the world could be safe—and that she could trust people again.
Your lottery entry helps us give more animals the same chance to heal, grow, and find loving homes. Every ticket brings hope to those who need it most.
A Happy Ending Starts With You
Nova’s story is a reminder that even the smallest act can change a life. And it’s not just Nova—hundreds of animals are waiting for the chance to be safe, cared for, and loved.
Click here to play the Rain Rescue Lottery now and help create more happy endings.

Our beautiful three-legged Saluki, Peaches, spent Christmas and New Year in foster care with our Centre Manager, Sophie, so she could continue to heal from her leg amputation. During that time, the bond between them grew stronger every day — snuggles on the sofa and quiet moments of trust and love.
We are overjoyed to share that Peaches has officially found her forever home — a real house to call her own — and she’ll be staying with Sophie and her family!
Peaches’ early life is a mystery — she was found as a stray, with no home, no one to care for her, and a leg injury that made life even harder. But now, she is thriving in a life full of love, comfort, and happiness. She enjoys playing with her cockapoo brother, Ozzy, going on gentle walks, trips to the pub, and cosy sofa snuggles. Every day is filled with warmth, care, and joy — a life every animal deserves, and one Peaches truly deserves.
A huge thank you to Sophie for giving Peaches this beautiful life. She is safe, loved, and happy — and we couldn’t be more grateful for the difference she has made.
This means you’ll be seeing a lot more of Peaches around Rain Rescue — she’ll be out raising awareness, visiting our centres, and shining as our very own RAIN Ambassador dog. She absolutely loves the attention of people, so if you see her, make sure to come and say hi! 🐾
Peaches’ story is a beautiful reminder of the resilience and courage our incredible animals show, even after a tough start. Stories like hers inspire us every day — happy endings, second chances, and lives transformed forever.
As we step into 2026 and beyond, RAIN will continue standing beside the animals and people who need us most. Thank you for being part of these heartwarming journeys. 🧡




















