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Ticks may be small, but they can cause serious health problems for your pets if left unnoticed or untreated. At Rain Rescue, we see firsthand the importance of regular checks and prevention, especially during peak tick season (spring to autumn in the UK). Whether you’re a dog walker or a cat cuddler, this guide will help you keep your furry family members safe and tick-free.
🕷️ What Are Ticks and Why Are They a Problem?
Ticks are tiny parasitic creatures that feed on the blood of animals (and sometimes humans). They’re often found in grassy, wooded or rural areas — which means countryside strolls, garden explorations, or even lounging in the backyard can all put pets at risk.
While most tick bites are harmless, some ticks carry serious diseases such as Lyme disease or babesiosis, which can affect both dogs and cats. Early detection and prevention are key.
🔍 Where to Check for Ticks on Your Pet
After walks or outdoor playtime, give your pet a thorough once-over — ticks love to hide in warm, sheltered areas. The most common places ticks attach include:
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Around the ears and eyes
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Under collars or harnesses
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Between the toes
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In the armpits (under the front legs)
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Around the groin area
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Under the tail and around the rear
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Along the neck and shoulders
Run your fingers through their fur slowly, applying gentle pressure so you can feel any small bumps.
🛑 How to Safely Remove a Tick
If you find a tick on your pet, don’t panic — and don’t pull it off with your fingers. Doing so could leave parts of the tick embedded, leading to infection.
Here’s the safe way to remove a tick:
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Use a tick removal tool – These are inexpensive and available at most vets or pet shops.
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Slide the tool under the tick, as close to your pet’s skin as possible.
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Gently twist while pulling upward — this should remove the tick in one piece.
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Dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet or sealing it in a bag before binning it.
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Clean the area with a pet-safe antiseptic.
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Wash your hands thoroughly after removal.
Keep an eye on the area for a few days. If it becomes red, swollen, or your pet seems unwell, always contact your vet.
🚫 Tick Prevention: How to Protect Your Pets
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of ticks:
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✅ Use a vet-recommended tick prevention treatment — these come in the form of spot-on treatments, chewable tablets, or collars.
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✅ Regularly groom your pet — it helps you spot ticks and other parasites early.
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✅ Keep your garden tidy — trimming back long grass and overgrown bushes makes it less inviting for ticks.
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✅ Avoid areas known to be tick hotspots — especially during warmer months.
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✅ Check pets thoroughly after walks — especially if they’ve been exploring wooded or grassy areas.
When to See a Vet
If you notice symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, limping, or unusual behaviour after a tick bite, it’s best to seek veterinary advice. These could be signs of a tick-borne illness and early treatment can make all the difference.
A second chance for a beautiful mother and daughter duo.
Meg and Wilma arrived at Rain Rescue through no fault of their own, after the heartbreaking loss of their previous owner. This mother and daughter pair were understandably confused and a little timid when they first came into our care. At first, both Meg and Wilma kept their distance, unsure of their new surroundings and the unfamiliar faces around them. They needed time, space, and gentle reassurance – and that’s exactly what our team gave them.
With daily care, calm words, and patience, we began to see glimpses of their sweet personalities shine through. Meg, the mum, was always slightly braver – stepping out first, curious but cautious. Wilma would follow her lead, slowly building her own confidence as she realised she was safe. Day by day, their trust grew. Before long, they were accepting strokes and curling up in their cosy beds, finally beginning to relax.
We knew both Meg and Wilma would need calm, patient homes where they could continue to grow in confidence. While they could have been rehomed separately if needed, we secretly hoped a family would come along who had room in their hearts for both – and thankfully, that wish came true.
Meg and Wilma’s new owners shared this lovely update:
“Our girls have settled in really quickly. They seem very content and are both happy to be stroked and cuddle up on the sofa and footstools. This week we’ve started letting them out into the garden with us, which they’re really enjoying. We feel they must have come from a very loving and happy home previously. They are such a pleasure to have as part of our family.”
Hearing how relaxed and content they now are fills our hearts with joy. After experiencing loss and uncertainty, these two gentle souls have found their place again – and their new family couldn’t be happier.
Meg and Wilma’s story is a beautiful reminder that, even in the wake of sadness, brighter days can follow. With time, love and a little patience, broken hearts can heal – and new bonds can blossom.
We’re so proud to have played a part in their journey, and so grateful to their new family for opening their home and hearts to them both.
Here’s to many more happy, peaceful days ahead for Meg and Wilma – and a lifetime of love in their forever home.
We’re excited to share some news—our Rain Rescue logo has had a little makeover!
You’ll still recognise it instantly—it’s the same familiar logo that’s stood beside us for years, just with a gentle refresh to reflect who we are today. The core design remains, but with one meaningful change: the person in the logo is now crouching down, right beside the animals.
Why? Because that’s exactly what we do every single day.
Whether it’s the dogs and cats waiting for their second chance, the animals in need of calm and care, or the animals in our community whose families need support to stay together, we’re here—on their level, at their pace, meeting them where they are. This small tweak represents something big: We will always walk alongside the animals we rescue, never above them. It’s a visual nod to our mission, our compassion, our grounded approach, and our promise to always act in the best interests of those who can’t speak for themselves.
We’ll be taking a phased approach to introducing the new logo. That means, as and when existing signage, uniforms, printed materials or other items naturally need replacing, we’ll take the opportunity to update them with our refreshed look. It’s part of our commitment to sustainability and responsible spending—we’re not throwing anything away before its time.
We want to reassure you: Rain Rescue remains the same at heart. Same mission. Same values. Same determination to give dogs and cats the second chances they so desperately need. Your generosity makes everything we do possible. It’s thanks to you that we can continue rescuing animals, giving them safety, love and hope.
So from all of us here at Rain Rescue—thank you. For believing in us, standing by us, and now, embracing this new chapter with us. We hope you love the refreshed logo as much as we do. It’s still us. Just with a little more heart showing on the outside.
At Rain Rescue, the safety and wellbeing of the animals in our care is always our top priority – and that means making sure our team has the knowledge, confidence and skills to respond to any situation.
That’s why we’re so proud to share that on Sunday 11th May, 24 of our staff and volunteers took part in a full day of Dog First Aid training. This hands-on, expert-led course was designed to equip our team with vital emergency care techniques that could one day save a life. Whether it’s a dog who suddenly collapses, a pup injured during play, or a medical emergency out at a public event – our team now feels more prepared than ever to act fast, stay calm, and give dogs the urgent care they need until veterinary help is available.
Throughout the course, we learnt how to carry out a full body examination, take a dog’s vital signs such as pulse, breathing rate and temperature, and how to perform CPR. We also covered how to respond to seizures, manage bleeding, treat burns and scalds, and recognise and respond to canine shock. More complex emergencies such as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), toxic ingestion, heat stroke and choking were also discussed in detail, giving our team the tools they need to act fast when it matters most.
What made the training especially impactful was the opportunity to put these skills into practice using specially designed dog mannequins. Practising CPR, bandaging, and emergency response techniques on realistic dummy dogs helped our team get a true feel for what it’s like to be in a high-pressure situation. It was an emotional and eye-opening experience for many of us, but one that left everyone feeling empowered and better prepared.
This kind of training is invaluable – not only does it help us protect the dogs in our care at the rescue centre, but it also equips us to provide fast, effective first aid when supporting dogs in foster care, travelling, or attending events in the wider community. The skills we’ve gained also benefit our team in their personal lives, giving them the confidence to care for their own pets at home or assist dogs in need they may encounter in public. Whether it’s offering first aid to a dog at a local event or helping a friend’s pup, this training ensures that we’re ready to respond in any situation – from the rescue centre to the community and beyond.
We’re incredibly proud of our team’s commitment to continual learning and to giving every dog the best chance possible – no matter the situation.
A big thank you to South Yorkshire Dog First Aid Training for delivering such an invaluable course. You can find them here: South Yorkshire Dog First Aid or follow them on Facebook, where they share great tips and educate on dog safety: South Yorkshire Dog First Aid on Facebook.
Helping us be there for pets and people through every storm!
We are absolutely delighted to share some exciting news — Rain Rescue has received a generous grant from Petplan Charitable Trust, which will help us launch an important new service that will change lives in our local community.
At Rain Rescue, our work goes far beyond rescuing and rehoming cats and dogs in crisis. We’re here for our community too — standing alongside pet owners facing hardship, and working to prevent animals from ever having to enter rescue in the first place.
This grant is essential to our mission. This funding is helping us increase the time we have veterinary nurses on site — meaning we can care for the rescue animals already in our centre, and launch a dedicated veterinary outreach programme for our local community. All of this support will be free of charge at the point of need, helping hundreds of families keep their much-loved pets healthy, safe, and right where they belong — at home.
As a small, independent charity, we simply couldn’t do this without the support of kind individuals donors and charitable trusts. Their funding is directly transforming lives — preventing suffering, reducing relinquishment, and ensuring more cats and dogs get the care they need without leaving the families who love them.
To Petplan Charitable Trust: thank you. Your support helps us be there for pets and people through every storm — and that means the world.
To learn more about the incredible work Petplan Charitable Trust does to support animals across the UK, visit their website at www.petplancharitabletrust.org.uk and follow them on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date.
If you or someone you know is struggling to access veterinary care for a cat or dog, please reach out. We’re here to help.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the incredibly sad news that our dear friend and long-standing volunteer, and dedicated fosterer Jackie Cain, passed away on Thursday, 3rd April 2025. Jackie has been a part of the Rain Rescue family for many years, and her loss is deeply felt by us all. She was a kind, selfless, and quietly strong woman who gave so much of herself to the animals in our care. Over the years, she opened her heart and home to countless cats — particularly those who found cattery life overwhelming — offering them a safe place to rest, heal, and feel loved.
She had a special way with the shy and struggling cats, the mums with litters, and those who needed just a little more time and patience. Jackie gave them that, and so much more. Beyond fostering, she was also a dedicated volunteer at the centre, always ready to lend a hand, support the team, and do whatever was needed — without fuss or fanfare, just with love.
Her compassion and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on our charity. She gave so much, and we are endlessly grateful for every moment she spent with us, and every life she helped transform. Her memory will live on in the many animals she helped, the friendships she made, and the lasting impact she had on all of us. We take comfort knowing that her legacy of love and care will continue to inspire and guide us as we carry on the work she was so passionate about. She will be so dearly missed by everyone here — her fellow volunteers, fosterers, staff, and the animals whose lives she changed forever.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew and loved Jackie, and we will be forever grateful for all she has done for us,
CEO Trisha Spargo, Board of Trustees, and all the staff and volunteers at Rain Rescue
Last December, a litter of six tiny Huntaway cross puppies arrived at Rain Rescue in desperate need of help. They were weak, lethargic, and heartbreakingly frail. These weren’t the bouncy, excitable puppies you’d expect to see. Their little bodies were thin, their ribs clearly visible beneath delicate, fragile skin. Their bellies were swollen from a severe worm infestation, a sign of the difficult start they had endured before finding their way to us.
Despite their condition, we saw hope in their eyes. We named them Elphaba, Glinda, Nessa, Oz, Munchkin, and Fiyero, inspired by Wicked, the movie lighting up cinemas at the time. But there was nothing magical about the way they arrived in our care. These tiny souls had been through so much already, and their fight for survival had only just begun.
These puppies should have been discovering the world with endless curiosity, their tails wagging, their paws clumsily exploring everything in sight. Instead, they barely had the energy to lift their heads. When they first arrived, we made sure they were seen by our vet immediately. We offered round-the-clock support and, most importantly, gave them the warmth and love they had been missing.
Slowly but surely, they regained their strength. The sparkle returned to their eyes, and they became the playful, curious puppies they were always meant to be. Once they were healthy and strong, we set out to find their forever homes. Puppies are often adopted quickly, and we were right, five of them had found their new families without hesitation. But sweet Nessa… she had no interest, no applications, and no home to call her own. Day after day, one by one, each of her siblings set off to their new homes. While we were overjoyed for them, we just couldn’t understand why Nessa was still here. It broke our hearts to see her waiting, with no one yet to choose her.
One week passed. Then two. As the days went by, we couldn’t help but worry for her. Puppies like Nessa should be learning, growing, and forming bonds with their families during these crucial early months. While she waited, we made sure she felt all the love in the world—our team showered her with cuddles, belly rubs, and endless care. Like every dog here at Rain Rescue, we treated Nessa as if she were our own, but we knew deep down that what she truly longed for was a family to call her own. We poured our hearts into finding her the perfect home, sharing videos of her playful, clever nature and posting heartfelt appeals online. Still, no applications came in—until one day, everything changed. A wonderful family reached out. Their application was full of love, hope, and excitement about giving Nessa the life she deserved. When they met her at the centre, it was love at first sight.
Watching Nessa walk away with her new family and her tail wagging, was a moment of pure joy.
This is why we do what we do. It’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about giving them a chance at a better life. Animals like Nessa, who have been through so much, deserve to experience love, warmth, and a place to call home. We watch them struggle, wait, and hope, knowing that each day they spend with us is one step closer to their happy ending. Every rescue, every story, every heart touched by the kindness of others is why we keep doing this work. We are here to ensure that every animal, no matter how long it takes, gets their chance at happiness.
We Have Some Exciting News to Share!
As a charity that relies on donations, we’re always looking for new and exciting ways to raise funds and support our vital rescue work. So, what better way to expand our fundraising offerings than by introducing the ultimate thrill-seeker’s challenge? Skydives!
Why Skydives Are Great for Charities
Skydiving is not just an adventure; it’s a fundraising phenomenon! Here’s why:
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Thrills and excitement: Skydiving attracts those who love adrenaline, making it a unique and exciting way to fundraise. It’s the kind of challenge that motivates people to push their limits for a cause they believe in – like Rain Rescue!
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Unforgettable experiences: Participants will take part in an experience they’ll remember forever. The sense of achievement after freefalling from 15,000 ft is immense, and knowing they’ve raised money for rescue animals makes it even more meaningful.
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Community spirit: Skydiving events bring people together for an adrenaline-filled day of fun, fundraising, and personal triumph. It’s a chance to bond with other supporters and share an amazing experience, all while raising funds to help animals in need.
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A great way to raise big funds: The minimum sponsorship target of £500 helps us reach our goals. A skydive isn’t just about the leap – it’s about making a huge impact on the lives of dogs and cats who’ve faced the hardest of times.
So, with this exciting addition to our fundraising portfolio, we’re giving you the chance to make a real difference and take the ultimate leap for our rescue animals.
The Challenge: Jump from 15,000 feet!
Feel the rush of 125mph freefall followed by a peaceful 5-minute canopy ride with breathtaking views of North Lincolnshire. Imagine the thrill of diving through the air while knowing you’re helping to rescue cats and dogs in desperate need.
To register your interest in our skydive challenge, click here.
2025 dates:
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Saturday 30th August
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Friday 19th September
Find out more about our skydives here
Challenge yourself. Champion their cause. Change their future.
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:
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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!
Spring is a season of new beginnings—flowers bloom, the days grow longer, and the world feels full of hope. But for rescue shelters like ours, spring also brings something else: kitten season. And this year, it’s already coming in strong. Yesterday, a heart-breaking discovery was made outside our centre gates. A box had been left behind. Inside, curled up tightly, was a mother cat and her three newborn kittens. We have named her Petal. But she wasn’t alone. She had been left with another cat—who we have named Daisy.
But Daisy was gone.
Terrified and confused, she had leapt from the box and run. We can only imagine how scared she must have felt, suddenly abandoned in an unfamiliar place. Luckily, our team acted fast, setting a trap and searching desperately. Fortunately, one of our dedicated welfare team spotted her. She was trembling, but she was found. And with gentle reassurance, we brought her to safety. Daisy is heavily pregnant, and now, like Petal and her kittens, she is warm, safe, and cared for.
What would have happened to Petal, Daisy, and the three kittens if we hadn’t found them in time? What would have happened if we found an empty box and they had all escaped? It’s something we don’t even want to imagine.
We know this wasn’t an easy decision for their owner. A note was left behind. Someone, struggling enormously with their mental health, felt they could no longer cope. In that moment of heartbreak, they made the decision to leave their beloved pets somewhere they believed would be safe. Please, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, please know that you’re not alone. Asking for help is never something to be ashamed of. We understand how tough life can be, and we will never judge—only support. That’s why we’re here, and why we always will be.
But right now, we need the help of our supporters.
Petal, Daisy, the three kittens, and the ones soon to be born are just the latest additions to our care, but they’re not alone. At this moment, we now have four mums and their kittens—each one adding to the growing number of mouths to feed, lives to protect, and a desperate need for support.
The truth is, we can’t do this without you. Your generosity is the lifeline that enables us to provide food, warmth, and safety for these vulnerable animals and those who are still to arrive. Every donation, every act of kindness, plays a crucial part in ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
You can make a meaningful difference in two powerful ways:
Donate to Provide a Meal for Petal and Daisy: Your donation will ensure that both mums get the vital nutrition they need to care for their kittens. No amount is too small—every contribution makes a difference. You can donate the value of a meal here.
Or
Text SAFETY to 70480 to donate £3
Text SAFETY to 70480 to donate £5
Text SAFETY to 70480 to donate £10
Text SAFETY to 70480 to donate £20
And to the person who left them — If you’re reading this, we want you to know they are safe, warm, and being well looked after. We hope this brings you some peace of mind, in case you’ve been worrying about them. And if you ever want to check in and see how they’re doing, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Watch Petal and Daisy’s story here.
Introducing Glinda, Elphaba, Nessa, Oz, Munchkin, and Fiyero—six precious Collie crosses who need your help this Christmas. These little ones came to us as an unwanted litter, and though we are relieved they’re now safe with us, their journey is just beginning.
At just 7 weeks old, these pups should be bounding around, full of energy, joy, and curiosity about the world. Sadly, they are far from that. Instead, they are weak, lethargic, and struggling. Every rib is visible on their fragile bodies, and their bloated tummies are a sign of a severe worm infestation that’s left them with upset stomachs and little energy to even move. It’s heartbreaking to see them this way, and it stretches our resources to the limit, especially with Christmas approaching. As we care for these six puppies, we are also supporting many other vulnerable animals—puppies, kittens, and adults—all of whom need our help. With the holiday season upon us, resources are stretched.
We are asking for a small but powerful donation of just £5, the cost of a Christmas dinner. This donation will go directly towards providing the essential care these pups need. Your donation, no matter how small, will make an incredible difference in their recovery. It will give them the chance to know love, to feel safe, and to eventually grow into the healthy, happy dogs they deserve to be.
This Christmas, we ask you to look into their eyes and see the potential in them—the same potential we see. Help us give them the care they need and the future they deserve. With your support, we can continue our work, save lives, and provide the hope and care these pups and others so desperately need.
Please, help us be there for them this Christmas and beyond. They are counting on us—and with your help, we can make sure they have the future they deserve.
Donate Today and make a difference: https://rainrescue.co.uk/…/a-christmas-dinner-for-a…/
If you can’t donate, please help us in another way:
Share their story on social media. It helps us reach more people, and the more people we reach, the more lives we can change. Your voice makes all the difference in helping us continue this important work.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity, your kindness, and your unwavering support.
*** Please note – We would appreciate if the comments remained free from remarks that may be seen as judging the puppies’ owner, as this will only serve to make people more hesitant to come forward when they are struggling, the opposite of what we want to achieve. If you need help maintaining your dog’s welfare, for whatever reason, please come forward and seek help, we will not judge you.
We’re thrilled to announce that Belle has welcomed her adorable puppies into the world! It’s a joyful time here at Rain Rescue, and we couldn’t wait to share the news with you.
These little ones are as cute as can be and, just like their mum, will need all the love and support we can give to get them started on the right paw. From cosy bedding to nutritious food, there are many ways you can help us care for Belle and her pups.
To learn more about Belle’s journey and how you can make a difference, check out our latest newsletter here. Thank you for being part of our community and helping us give Belle and her babies a brighter future!
We’ve got a very special resident to introduce you to tonight! Everyone, meet beautiful Belle.
Belle was found as a stray and came to us from the dog warden after she was unclaimed. When dogs arrive as strays, we have very little information about them and have to get to know them from scratch. Learn what they like and dislike, try to decipher what kind of life they may have led from their behaviour, and do everything to assure them that they are safe now, for what might well be the first time.
Belle has given us a bigger surprise than most! She was very anxious on arrival, which is not uncommon, and the team did everything they could to put her at ease, but there was just something different about her behaviour and the team had a hunch. Investigation from our vets confirmed they were right….Belle is pregnant!
She has been settling in for the last week or so, and the vets believe she will have her puppies fairly soon. She is a super nervous girl, we don’t think she has seen much kindness in her life, but she has taken a real shine to two of our amazing animal carers – Emma & Kelly, and has been enjoying all the snuggles and extra special treats.
We are of course committed to supporting Belle and all her puppies (however many there may be!) to the lives they deserve, and we would really appreciate your help to do so. Every animal we help is a tricky balance, and surprise residents will put a strain on things! If you can donate towards Belle’s care and that of her puppies, and our other animals, please do so. You can give:
- via our donation page here
- you can treat Belle to a scrummy meal to keep her energy up for birth and feeding her litter here
- you can TEXT BELLE to 70085 to donate £5 towards her care (texts will be charged at one standard message rate plus your donation amount)
Thank you so much! These puppies will of course be adorable and melt all of our hearts, and all being well, they will undoubtedly find lovely forever homes once they are old enough, but there is a crisis in animal welfare, and far too many dogs for too few homes. Please neuter your pets and encourage friends and family to do the same, for the sake of all the animals out there without a home to call their own.
Please note: we are not accepting adoption interest for Belle at this time. Thank you!
With Trick or Treaters knocking, here’s a Halloween tip to keep your cats and dogs safe: Keep them distracted!
Place some enrichment like Licky mats or stuffed kongs in another room to keep them busy, or pop them on a lead while you answer the door! This will help prevent any unexpected escapes and keep your furry friends calm and safe.
Let’s make this Halloween fun for everyone—including your pets!
At Rain Rescue, our mission is to save and support the lives of animals in need. We are always seeking ways to create meaningful collaborations that not only help our cause but also bring value. Auris Ear Care has provided our charity with incredible photo opportunities, and we are grateful for their support.
Established by Dr Riaz Rampuri in 2018, Auris Ear Care specialises in ear infection treatment, the extraction of foreign bodies from ears and microsuction ear wax removal in London and across the Home Counties. As the first CQC regulated clinic in the UK, they provide home visits 24/7. Their ENT doctors treat both adults and children.
Thank you Auris Ear Care for supporting Rain Rescue.
We know first-hand the positive impact that pets can have on our mental well-being.
They bring so much joy and comfort into our lives, offering unconditional love, companionship, and can even help reduce stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that spending time with pets can boost our mood, encourage physical activity, and provide a sense of purpose.
On this important day, let’s celebrate the positive effects our furry friends have on our mental health. Please share a story of how your pet has helped your mental health!
Hi everyone, you may recognise my handsome face because I’ve been here before. I was adopted back in August, but unfortunately I didn’t get the fairytale ending I was hoping for, because my poor owner started suffering with ill health 😢 I’m sad to be looking for another home, but I really hope they get better!
I was getting used to having a home so it would be great if I wasn’t here for long. Not that I don’t love the team here, they are so lovely to me and give me lots of attention, but it’s not the same as having your own family & home.
Please share my story with everyone you know to help me finally find the forever home I deserve!
View Hathaway’s profile here.
Hi everyone, I have been at Rain Rescue for 12 weeks after giving birth to my kittens & raising them here, but I am now ready to find a loving home of my own!
My foster Mum says I am an absolute cutie & loving purr machine. I mean I wouldn’t argue with her, I do love a nice warm lap to snuggle on!
I may be happy as the only pet, but if you have other pets it’s always worth speaking with the team about that before ruling me out. I am also family friendly, but older children would be preferable so they allow me my space when I need it.
As Animal of the Week, my adoption fee has been reduced to £85 for this week only! Please help by sharing my story, it would mean the world to me.
View Willow’s profile here.
Frenchie & Millie arrived with us in September 2024. The aptly named ‘Frenchie’ and her daughter Millie, have an incredibly close bond, and have been joined at the hip since Millie was born nine years ago. The girls’ owners were no longer able to care for them after a really difficult change in circumstances. Sadly, these ladies came to us needing a little more help than most.
Both girls needed extensive veterinary help, and while Millie had some eye and skin issues that needed attention, it was poor Frenchie who had really been in the wars. She had severe eye problems, causing her significant and constant pain. So much so, her eye was protruding from the socket, swollen and irritated. There was no choice but to remove her eye, an expensive surgery, not without risk, especially with Frenchie’s age and breed, but she could have no real quality of life without it.
Frenchie is a trooper, she came through the surgery and her eye was healing well. Sadly, while Frenchie was under anaesthetic, our vets also found severe dental issues and discovered a number of tumours in her mouth, later confirmed to be malignant.
We did not know how much time Frenchie would have left, but at for the time being she was comfortable. She was happy and playful and her pain was easily managed with medication.
We were desperate for her to spend her remaining days in the comfort of a home, with her beloved daughter Millie, and a loving family to call their own. So we set about looking for just that – a long-term foster home for these girls, a family that would take them in, and give them all the love and home comforts they needed, while all their medical needs were tended to by Rain Rescue.
Imagine our delight when our gorgeous little duo found just that!
A family came forward willing to take the girls in and give them the loving home they deserved. Upon meeting, it was love at first sight and within a few days, the girls had their paws well and truly under the table!
The team miss their wiggles and their little grunts, but we are all over the moon that they have found their happy ending, together as they have always been.
We will still see both girls regularly, as our in house vets will be tending to all their medical needs while they are in their forever home. Our shared goal now with their forever family, is to keep them as happy and healthy as possible, for as long as possible. And when the time does come, for Frenchie to peacefully pass over the rainbow bridge, Millie will be able to find comfort and support adjusting to the change, from her wonderful new family.
We could not do what we do for dogs like Frenchie & Millie without generous donations from our wonderful supporters. If you would like to help fund more happily ever afters for dogs like Frenchie & Millie, you can make a donation to support our vital work here.
With Bonfire Night fast approaching, there are ways you can prepare your dog for the event, to reduce their stress and anxiety when the time comes. Some dogs will be totally unphased by fireworks, snoozing the evening away as usual! But for some, it can be a terrifying experience, which can be extremely distressing for us as owners.
In the build up to these events, and through the year, there are things you can do to try and ease the stress of bonfire night for your dog. You can find a step by step guide below. Desensitisation training can be a slow process, and you may at times have to go back a few steps and then progress again. Attempting to rush it though, can do more harm than good, so it is wise to start desensitisation training as far in advance as possible, and to go at your dog’s own pace, to best set them up for success.
If you have welcomed a puppy or rescue dog into your family, who has not experienced fireworks before, we recommend including some desensitisation training for them, even if they have shown no signs of noise anxiety, this will reduce the chance of them developing fears in later life.
Desensitisation Training
Aim to start this as far in advance of the anticipated stressful event as you can.- Firstly, it is wise to have your dog checked over by a vet. Noise sensitivity is often seen in pets who are in pain or have undiagnosed medical issues, such as gastrointestinal problems. If your pet is in discomfort, training will at best take much longer, or at worst be completely ineffective. If your dog has developed noise anxiety quite quickly when they have previously been quite relaxed, it is even more likely that they are experiencing some pain that requires attention.
- Decide on a time during the day when it is most convenient to train, and plan that into your schedule. This will make it more likely that you are able to stick to the plan, even in the face of busy, everyday life. Several short sessions a day, will be more effective than one long session, and consistency is key.
- Systematic desensitisation has been shown to be most effective at helping with noise phobias. This involves playing firework noises (you can find compilations of these on YouTube) and GRADUALLY increasing volumes at a pace that your dog can cope with. Remain calm whilst you do this training and continue with your day as normal, but ensure to keep a close eye on your dog. Watch for any subtle changes in body language that suggests they are uncomfortable, and reduce the volume if you spot any, back to a level they are comfortable with. You can find a detailed guide on interpreting your dog’s body language here How to Understand Your Dog’s Body Language | Dogs Trust.
- Play the sounds at such a low volume that your dog notices the sound, but does not respond fearfully to it. Their ears might prick, and they may look up, but they should quickly be able to go back to what they are doing. Look out for signs of anxiety like licking lips, yawning, scratching, whining and pacing, and immediately reduce the volume further. You may have to start at a lower level than you anticipate to solicit an aware yet relaxed reaction from your dog.
- Over the course of many days, increase the volume very gradually, noting how your dog responds each time and adjusting the volume as needed. Don’t increase the volume until your dog is able to ignore it at its current level. You may provide calm, relaxed activities while the sound is playing, such as long lasting treats or enrichment puzzles (if your dog enjoys these in a calm manner – avoid anything that may frustrate them), but don’t try to engage in play or encourage excitement in your dog, you want your dog to be relaxed and neutral through the process.
- Never throw your dog into the deep end by cranking up the volume and expect them to get used to it- it won’t work and your dog will suffer as a consequence. Slow, gradual exposure is key.
If you seek further advice and support, please contact your vet or a qualified dog behaviourist. Should you have any questions about the advice provided here, please reach out to our team who will be happy to help!
How you can make your dog more comfortable on the day
You may have stumbled across this article only a few days before fireworks are likely, in which case, it is not wise to start desensitisation training, as there will not be time for it to have effect. However, there are other things you can do, to support your dog through this stressful period.- Create a safe space for your dog to relax– somewhere where they can retreat away from the noise, should they wish. If your dog chooses to hide rather than seek comfort from you, let them.
- Be on hand to provide comfort and reassurance– try to keep them as calm as possible but let them come to you for reassurance, rather than insisting.
- Take walks in the day before it gets dark– this will be quieter and less stressful for them, a dog fearful of fireworks will find being outside while they are going off extremely distressing, and may even attempt to flee. If you must take them outside, to the garden for instance, keep them on a lead.
- Make your own noise– play their favourite music or have the TV on to distract them from the noise outside.
- Close your windows and curtains– shut out the flashes and muffle the noise.
- Talk to your neighbours and event venues in your area– ask them if they’re having fireworks so you can be prepared on the night they do.
- Provide lots of drinking water– nervous dogs are likely to pant more and become thirsty.
- Keep them in a secure room when answering the door– a frightened dog may attempt to flee to try and escape the perceived threat, and this means they won’t be able to suddenly escape out of the door.
- Provide a long-lasting tasty treat– treats like a filled Kong can keep them distracted and their mind busy.
- Use relaxing aromas in your home– scents like Lavender and Chamomile can aid relaxation. There are also calming medications/remedies available that you can purchase through your vets. Always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice from a vet before using any product. Be aware that some essential oils are toxic to animals so read ingredients lists thoroughly.
- Use tried and tested pheromone therapy – such as Adaptil or Pet Remedy, which has been proven to reduce anxiety during thunderstorms. Always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek advice from a vet before using any product.
