How Sussex Pet Rescue Began

In 1995 we formally became "The Sussex Pet Rescue Charitable Trust" and then, after much form filling question answering, and much attention to legal detail, we finally achieved our registration as an approved National Charity, thus bringing us into line with the RSPCA and the Canine Defence League in terms of our ability to raise funds for our work.

Little did I think, thirty-five years ago when I joined a very small band of local animal welfare workers, that our group would progress to become a recognised charity. At first, the group did not even have a name, and, since we rescued and re-homed any animal needing our help, it was difficult for us to find an appropriate title. It was Bunny Heaseman who first hit upon the name "Pet Rescue" - a name which has since become so well known within the Sussex area and beyond for the care of animals in distress.

I met Kate Tapper (one of my Co-Directors) over thirty years ago when we were both walking our dogs in the Copse at the top of Woodland Drive, Hove. One day she commented on the number of different dogs I appeared to own. "Oh yes," I replied, "I am a member of a group called Pet Rescue.  I don't suppose you ever have any free time for us, do you?" Now Kate often wonders how different life would have been for her and her family if her answer to my question had not been so enthusiastic, or, indeed, if she had chosen to walk her dogs on the Downs rather than the Copse!

It would be impossible to thank all our volunteers individually for all their hard work over many years, but without our wonderful foster homes, the work of Sussex Pet Rescue would have been impossible.   We believe that animals, and especially dogs, often suffer by being placed in kennels, and therefore our policy is to place animals waiting for adoption in foster homes. This gives us a much better chance to assess them in normal surroundings where they may come into contact with children and/or other animals. We also have an opportunity to investigate any known health problems before they are re-homed.

Our profound thanks go to Keren O'Mahony and her band of tireless helpers who continually raise funds for Sussex Pet Rescue and Cat Welfare. Without their efforts, Sussex Pet Rescue could not function as our veterinary costs alone are in excess of £23,000 per annum - a vast sum to raise before we feed all the animals in our care.

All of our work would be to no avail without the advice, support and co-operation of our Vets who so generously discount their fees in order to help our work. They, like us, are anxious to prevent further unwanted pets being brought into the world and support our subsidised spaying scheme whereby owners on low income can have their pet neutered/spayed at a considerably reduced price.

It is said that if you give a donation to a cause, you give a part of your wealth but that if you give time, you give part of your life.   If you would like further information about Sussex Pet Rescue, including fostering or adoption, please do not hesitate to contact either Helen (01444 400371) or me (01273 551815).



Marcia Harris