Donegal Animal Charity Declares Emergency, Halts Pet Intake

A prominent animal charity in Donegal has announced it is unable to accept any more unwanted pets due to overwhelming demand. Animals in Need Donegal, which typically rescues abandoned dogs and cats, is currently at full capacity and has had to decline further intake requests.

The charity has reported a significant increase in calls for assistance over the past few days, with many individuals seeking to rehome their pets. A spokesperson for the organization stated, “We are inundated with calls from people looking for us to take in animals, but we are COMPLETELY full and can only add them to our waiting list.”

The situation has been exacerbated by the potential closure of the ISPCA centre in Letterkenny, which has led to additional pressure on local resources. The spokesperson emphasized the emotional strain this situation places on their volunteers, stating, “The reality is that we can’t take in every single animal that we are contacted about, however much it breaks our hearts.”

In light of these circumstances, the charity has urged the public to support their efforts and remain patient. “We are working flat out, and trying to blackmail us, either emotionally or financially, will not make kennel spaces available but will only upset and stress our volunteers even more, which is not fair,” the spokesperson added.

Although Animals in Need Donegal is currently unable to accept new animals, they encourage individuals in need of assistance to contact the ISPCA’s National Helpline at 0818 515 515. The charity also invites concerned citizens to voice their objections regarding the withdrawal of services in Donegal.

Those wishing to express their thoughts can send a written complaint or feedback marked “Strictly Private and Confidential” to the Head of Communications at the ISPCA National Animal Centre, located at Derryglogher, Keenagh, Co. Longford, N39X 257, or via email at [email protected].

The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by animal welfare organizations in Ireland, particularly in rural areas. As demand for rehoming services continues to rise, the community is called upon to support local charities and consider alternatives for responsible pet ownership.