Each year we take in nearly 1000 unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats and this year we have seen yet another increase in the number of vulnerable puppies and kittens needing our help. It is vitally important that we provide our animals with the very best during their stay with us and their pens must be kept warm and comfortable at all times. During the winter months we use lots of donated duvets and blankets to help keep the animals warm and cosy, but our heating bills increase dramatically. There are 81 cat pens and 82 dog kennels to keep warm, which costs over £5000 each year.

General Manager Claire Sparkes said: "This will be the fifth year we have asked for help with our heating costs and we are always amazed by the generosity of our wonderful supporters. Their help really does make a difference to how we can look after the vulnerable dogs, cats and kittens, such as Dolly, Droopy and Fun-Sized Freddo. The current rise in energy costs is a worrying trend and we have had another year of being unable to hold or attend any fundraising events, which means we are facing another huge funding shortfall."

If we are lucky enough to raise more money than is needed it will go towards helping all the animals in our care.