Local Causes
Volunteering For Animal Charities In Southampton
Animals are such a vital part of our world but there are too many who don't receive the treatment and love they truly deserve. Whether it's a pet that's been mistreated or a native species in the wild that's been displaced, there are thousands of animals across the UK who desperately need help.
Volunteering For Animal Charities In Southampton
In the UK, nearly 50% of us are pet owners in some capacity. Nevertheless, there are still many dogs, cats and other animals who lack a caring home because they've been abandoned, cruelly treated or have owners who simply can't look after them properly.
Animal charities are a crucial part of safeguarding wildlife and pets so we can continue to enjoy their company for centuries to come. In Southampton, you'll find a host of wonderful rescue organisations that are dedicated to helping animals in the local area.
Animal Charities In Southampton That Need Your Support
Founded in 1897, the Blue Cross is one of the UK's leading animal rescue and rehoming charities. It has dozens of animal sanctuaries across the UK that offer a safe temporary home for pets while they're rehabilitated and rehomed.
In Southampton, the Blue Cross has had a rescue centre in West End for the past 30 years that takes in dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. The centre is always after volunteers to not only assist with tasks like cat befriending, but also to become short term foster carers. The ultimate way to help out (if you're able to) is to adopt one of the centre's cute residents and offer them a wonderful new forever home.
Cats are the second most popular pet in the UK, yet there are also many strays and poorly treated felines which don't have safe, welcoming homes. Cats Protection is a UK-wide charity that takes in unwanted cats or kittens and looks to find them a new home where they can thrive.
In Southampton, Cats Protection has two charity shops that help raise funds for rescue centres around the country. Why not contact them to see if they need any new volunteers to help sort through stock, organise the shop or greet customers? You could also assist by donating high quality items or by completing a fundraising charity challenge. Fosterers are also always required for the regional rescue centre.
One of the most widely recognised animal charities in the UK, the RSPCA not only rescue, rehabilitate and rehome a wide range of pets but they also run various conservation projects for local wildlife. The charity is also well-known for its low-cost veterinary services and for running important animal welfare campaigns.
The Solent branch of the RSPCA (known locally as the 'Stubbington Ark') is located just outside of Southampton, and it's one of the charity's largest animal shelters. In addition to taking in dogs and cats, it also welcomes smaller pets, exotic creatures and farm animals.
The Stubbington Ark is always looking for new volunteers to aid with tasks like dog walking, maintenance, and even to assist with home visits to potential adopters. You could also get involved by backing one of the RSPCA's campaigns or through fundraising.
The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) is another national animal charity that People's Postcode Lottery support. So far, our players have managed to raise over £11 Million for the charity, which goes straight towards funding its amazing free veterinary services.
Founded in 1917, the PDSA currently has 51 animal hospitals across the UK, where pet owners can take their animals if they're in need of emergency medical treatment but are unable to afford it. The charity also strives to educate the next generation of pet owners by running various projects in schools around responsible animal ownership.
In Southampton, you'll find a PDSA hospital in Northam that helps hundreds of pets recover from illnesses and injuries every year. Why not get involved with fundraising for the hospital so they can continue to assist animals in need?
How Can You Help?
As well as browsing our Local Causes directory for even more charitable opportunities in Southampton, don't forget to sign up to People's Postcode Lottery. Our players help raise millions of pounds every year, with 32% of the ticket price going to amazing causes.
Last updated: 05/03/2021