The RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Centre and Hospital in Birmingham is one of the busiest RSPCA centres in the country. Last year, the centre took in 1,331 animals, including 267 dogs, and rehomed more than a thousand animals to their new forever homes.
In 2017, the hospital treated more than 15,000 patients from dogs, cats, rabbits and wildlife, and carried out 1,129 neutering operations.
That is why, this year, people taking part in the My Big Walkies challenge which kicks off in June, can raise money specifically for the Birmingham hospital.
Animal lovers can pledge 10,000 steps a day to help animals just like Bronte and Ollie.
Bronte is a black lurcher crossbreed who came into RSPCA care after she was involved in a road traffic accident.
Staff managed to trace her owners who signed her over so that she could get the treatment she needed at the animal hospital.
The one-year-old had a small fracture to her hind foot.
Deborah Caffull, Birmingham Animal Centre manager, said: “As you can imagine with Bronte being a young dog and an active breed she was so bored by not being able to run and get the exercise her breed loves so much. Now she has been given the all clear for normal exercise and rehoming.
“She loves being off the lead and chasing toys so she will need an active home. Once her energy has been spent she is a very affectionate girl and loves cuddle time. She is great with other dogs and just wants to play, so she could live with another pooch in her next home if they are also fairly playful. Bronte is an energetic typical lurcher who will benefit from experienced owners who can reassure and build her confidence when needed.”
Ollie is a brindle and white crossbreed who came into RSPCA care more than a year ago after he was rescued by an inspector when his previous owner failed to treat his poorly leg.
Ollie had been suffering with a limp in his right hind leg. Once he came into RSPCA care, it was discovered that he had a luxating patella, also known as a floating kneecap. After a month of treatment it was decided that the best option was to amputate the leg and Ollie is now coping well on three paws.
Deborah added: “Ollie is a smart dog and knows basic commands. He loves zooming around off his lead, chasing balls and running rings around us. He will need someone who can continue to socialise him with other dogs so would need an experienced owner and a family with children of secondary school age or older.”
Miranda Goodenough, head of innovation at the RSPCA said: “Birmingham Animal Hospital and Centre is relentlessly working hard to protect the welfare of animals. Each year more than 10,000 animals are cared for at the hospital and the numbers are rising every year.
“That is why you can support the hospital by signing up to My Big Walkies, and take 10,000 steps a day - that’s one step for every animal saved.”
