Our rescue centre van is more than a way to transport goods, it’s a key piece of equipment which helps all areas of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre function and without it, we couldn’t provide the excellent care that our animals deserve.

Each day, our van carries out important tasks.

Animal transfer: A large van helps us transport animals that need to be taken to other rescue centres. For example, we sometimes move dogs to other RSPCA branches for welfare reasons if they would be more comfortable in a less urban environment. Recently we had to relocate newborn puppies to a branch with puppy rearing rooms, as our centre doesn't currently have this facility.

Veterinary emergencies: Sometimes we need to work with private veterinary partners if we can’t provide the specialist care an animal needs. We use the van to transport sick and injured animals to another vet for treatment.

Outreach clinics: Our van transports equipment and staff to deliver our weekly outreach clinics. Our clinics are a vital service for pet owners in our community. We run these clinics twice a week in Lawrence Weston and Knowle West. Last year the clinic provided 2,689 consultations and continues to help pets stay with their loving owners.

Fundraising: Our van helps collect your kind food donations from supermarkets, as well as transporting equipment for fundraising and educational events.

Site maintenance: The van is key to keeping our site clean and tidy by helping to remove any waste or bringing in materials to fix anything around the centre. As a large centre that has been around for over 135 years, our buildings require constant maintenance to ensure we are providing the best standard of care. The van is key to ensure we can always remove or gather what we need to keep the centre looking its best!

What is wrong with our current van?

Our current 2009 Ford Transit, with over 120,000 miles on the clock, is facing increasing mechanical issues which are no longer viable to repair. Additionally, it's not compliant with Clean Air Zone (CAZ)/ULEZ Euro 6 standards, which restricts its operational areas due to environmental regulations. We try to avoid daily charges by not entering the Clean Air Zone, however, sometimes this is necessary while carrying out important rescue work and this inevitably increases our charity’s running costs.

The increasing repair and maintenance costs, alongside the limitations imposed by environmental compliance, create an urgent need for replacing our van and we can’t do this alone.

The new van

We are looking at buying a Euro 6 ‘plus’ compliant diesel vehicle. This newer model would enable us to undertake long-distance runs without the worry of frequent refuelling stops. It needs to be a medium to large size vehicle, equipped with air-conditioning and parking sensors, and with sufficient space to accommodate two large dog crates safely and comfortably. The focus is on ensuring that the new vehicle not only meets our operational needs but also aligns with environmental regulations. All of this will mean we can continue to provide our vital services for animals in need.

Timeline and additional funding

Our target is set at £10,500 as we have secured a grant from Bristol City Council's Clean Air Zone support fund for £4,500 to cover some of the costs. To remain eligible for this funding, we need to be in the position to buy our new van as soon as possible. We greatly appreciate your support!

If we are fortunate enough to raise more than the funds specified in this appeal, any additional funds will be designated as unrestricted and will be used to support our general running costs. For example, helping with our utility bills to keep the centre clean, warm and comfortable for the animals in our care.

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre is the working name for two linked charities – RSPCA Bristol & District Branch (Registered Charity No. 205858) and Bristol Dogs and Cats Home (Registered Charity No. 205858-1)