At any one time Tia cares for around 100 greyhounds and lurchers in purpose built kennels, helping to find ‘forever’ homes for around 250 dogs a year. But it doesn’t stop there…Tia Rescue is one of only 5 registered Shire Horse sanctuaries in the UK and also currently has shaggy Poitou donkeys, miniature donkeys, goats, chickens and sheep, a real menagerie.
Based on a 70-acre farm on the outskirts of Finningley, Doncaster, Tia was established by Debra Rothery and her husband Bob who, with their team of dedicated helpers, work tirelessly to provide sanctuary for their family of animals, some of which arrive at Tia following some horrendous treatment and neglect.
The rehabilitation of some of these animals can take months while others may never recover and become lifetime residents at Tia.
Anyone visiting the centre unaware of the background of some of these animals would be astonished to hear that they are rescued, all testament to the work that Debs, Bob and their team do. New kennels have recently been built and work is underway on much needed new purpose built stabling, however, their work can only continue with the funds generated through their charity shops, local people who come to help walk the dogs, the fund raising and donations.
‘‘The new kennels are providing a much needed sanctuary for our many greyhounds and lurchers, the same is underway for our horses. This new purpose built structure will allow us to provide shelter and seclusion to care for horses recovering from physical and mental trauma as well as essential stabling during the winter months. All thanks to the many donations and help we receive from our network of well wishers’ said Debs.
Tia relies totally on public donations but as well as cash, they welcome donations of unwanted clothing, shoes, furniture and general bric-a-brac, all incredibly helpful in generating crucial sales through Tia’s 6 charity shops. These are all in the Yorkshire area; Pickering, Meltham, Hebden bridge, Todmorden, Armthorpe, Ashby and at the Doncaster rescue centre itself.
Sponsorships are also another great way to support Tia; individuals and companies are all welcomed with the opportunity to sponsor dogs, horses, kennels and stables.
‘We purchased Hampton Steel’s Hampton NET™ fencing for the fields to provide the best and safest perimeters for our horses and foals. Hampton Steel kindly made a financial donation sponsoring a kennel for our greyhounds. Without such generosity we would be forced to close but we still need much, much more in terms financial support and donations of clothing and household items for our charity shops. Sponsoring an animal is also a great way to help, .’ Said Debs.
Tia plays host to various dog and horse shows throughout the year featuring various fun activities for all the family. For more information contact Tia Rescue on 01302 772935.
Anyone wishing to make a financial donation can do so by visiting their website.
www.tia-rescue.org or Text DOGS00 to 70070 and enter amount the amount you wish to donate i.e. £10.