Pet shelter in search for volunteers

The nation’s largest pet shelter is seeking foster owners in Ashford.

Battersea is looking for residents who would be able to temporarily look after cats and dogs - and is offering free pet food, equipment and vet treatments to help volunteers.

It is setting up a so-called ‘community’ - only the second of its kind - to support its rehousing efforts.

The charity hopes to rehome many more animals in the area through Community Rehoming Volunteers (CRVs), who will be recruited to care for animals temporarily while taking an active role in finding them a permanent home.

Emma Harrison, Battersea communities manager, said: “Our ultimate goal at Battersea is to help as many dogs and cats as possible.”

Battersea is currently looking for applicants that ideally live in the postcodes TN23-30 and do not have young children or other pets at home.

Applicants need access to a car in case the animal they are looking after needs veterinary attention, and should be able to commit to looking after each dog or cat for a few weeks or, potentially, a couple of months.

All volunteers will receive ongoing support and behavioural training.

For Ashford residents who are unable to take an animal into their home but still want to help, Battersea is also looking to recruit animal lovers who live locally and are able to offer some of their time to support and promote Battersea at community events.

For more information, visit bit.ly/3cRbBN7

Volunteers will look after dogs like Henry