Animals In Need issues urgent hay appeal as Northamptonshire heat puts extra pressure on rescue
Northamptonshire animal rescue Animals In Need is appealing to the local community for help as soaring summer temperatures put additional pressure on the charity and its supplies of hay.
The charity, based at Pine Tree Farm in Little Irchester and Neaturn Farm, Guilsborough cares for a wide variety of rescued domestic and wild animals, including horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, pigs and other farm animals.
With hay being used up quickly, the rescue is now asking local animal lovers, farmers, businesses and members of the public to help replenish its supplies.
The charity has already issued an urgent appeal on social media, highlighting just how quickly its hay is disappearing.
Sanctuary manager Annie Marriott said: “We’re getting through hay incredibly quickly at the moment, and with so many larger animals relying on us, we’re really feeling the pressure.
"We know times are difficult for everyone, but if anyone can donate hay, contribute towards the cost or share our appeal, we’d be incredibly grateful.”
The recent hot weather has brought its own challenges, with staff and volunteers working hard to ensure the animals remain comfortable, hydrated and well cared for while maintaining their normal feeding routines.
Annie, who manages the Neaturn farm site alongside Roy at Pinetree Farm, said: “Everyone has done an amazing job in the heat, we are really grateful, but we are really feeling the impact already and this is before winter hits.”
With the extra pressure of recent weather the cost and volume of food required has increased hugely for everyone, especially the farm animals at Neaturn Farm.
Every bale of hay donated means one less expense for the rescue and more money available for veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and the animals who need it most.
Animals In Need is asking anyone who may be able to donate hay, contribute towards the cost of supplies or help spread the appeal to get in touch.
The charity also has a number of other ways supporters can help, including donations, volunteering, fundraising and purchasing items through its wish lists.
The wildlife unit alone deals with hundreds of casualties each year and relies on donations to provide food, veterinary treatment and rehabilitation with volunteers constantly working through the ever growing list of heat related incidents.
Animals In Need is appealing to the Northamptonshire community: if you can help with hay, food, funds or simply sharing the appeal, your support could make a real difference to animals in their care this summer.
For more information call 01933 278080 or email [email protected].
Donations can also be made through the charity’s website, where and supporters can find information about its food donation points and other ways to help.