The RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch is preparing for a busy summer of fundraising and community engagement, with staff and volunteers looking forward to meeting supporters at two popular local events. The branch will attend Ainsdale Village on July 4 and July 5, where visitors can take part in the charity's much-loved Gift Bag Tombola. Every game sold helps raise vital funds for the branch, allowing it to continue supporting animals in need across Southport, Ormskirk and the surrounding areas. Funds raised contribute towards veterinary treatment, food, bedding, rehabilitation and welfare support for vulnerable animals.
Upcoming Events and Community Engagement
Staff and volunteers will be on hand throughout both days to talk to the public about the branch's work, the animals currently in its care and the many ways people can get involved in supporting local animal welfare. The branch is also pleased to announce that it will attend Halsall Summer Fair on August 2. The annual fair attracts visitors from across the area and provides another excellent opportunity for the charity to raise awareness and much-needed funds.
Like many charities, the RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch continues to face increasing costs. Veterinary fees, specialist treatments and day-to-day expenses associated with caring for rescued animals have all risen significantly in recent years. Fundraising events therefore play a crucial role in ensuring the branch can continue its important work.
Towel Appeal: A Simple Yet Essential Need
Alongside its fundraising efforts, the branch is making an appeal to local residents for donations of towels. While many people think first of food or toys when supporting animal charities, towels are one of the most frequently used and essential items at the branch. They are used every day for bedding, drying animals after bathing, lining carriers, providing comfort for nervous animals and helping to maintain clean and hygienic accommodation. The branch is asking supporters to check their airing cupboards and linen cupboards for any clean, unwanted towels that could be donated rather than discarded.
“Towels are used constantly throughout the rescue operation. Whether caring for cats, dogs or other animals, they are invaluable for maintaining comfort, cleanliness and welfare standards. Donations of towels help ensure more funds can be directed towards veterinary treatment and animal care,” a branch spokesperson said.
Summer Pet Safety Advice
With temperatures rising as summer gets underway, the branch is also reminding pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their animals safe and comfortable during hot weather. Heat can pose serious risks to both dogs and cats, particularly young animals, elderly pets, flat-faced breeds and those with underlying health conditions. Dog owners are advised to ensure that fresh drinking water is always available and to avoid exercising dogs during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning and late evening walks are generally safer when temperatures are lower. Owners should also remember that pavements can become extremely hot during sunny weather. A useful guide is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds. If it is uncomfortable for you, it is likely too hot for your dog's paws.
The branch is also reminding people never to leave dogs unattended in cars. Even on relatively mild days, temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, putting animals at risk of severe heatstroke or worse. Providing access to shade, cooling mats, damp towels under your dog and paddling pools can all help dogs stay comfortable during periods of warm weather.
Cat owners are encouraged to ensure fresh water is available both indoors and outdoors where possible. Cats often seek out cooler areas naturally, but owners can help by keeping curtains closed during the hottest periods of the day and ensuring there are shaded places available for resting. Regular grooming can also help long-haired cats remain comfortable by removing excess fur and preventing matting. Owners should watch carefully for signs of heat stress, including panting, lethargy, excessive drooling or unusual behaviour.
How to Support the Branch
As summer continues, the RSPCA Southport, Ormskirk and District Branch hopes local residents will support its fundraising activities and animal welfare work. Whether through visiting a fundraising stall, donating towels, volunteering, fostering animals or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps make a difference. The branch warmly invites everyone to visit its stall in Ainsdale Village on July 4 and 5 and to stop by at Halsall Summer Fair on August 2. Supporters can enjoy the ever-popular Gift Bag Tombola, meet the staff and volunteers and learn more about the vital work being carried out to help animals in need throughout the local area. Every game purchased, every donation made and every conversation held helps give vulnerable animals the care, treatment and second chance they deserve.
