From keeping animals cool through record-breaking temperatures to welcoming new faces and watching our new facilities take shape, it’s been a busy summer at Little Valley. Deputy Shelter Manager Rhiannon Orris brings us the latest from the shelter.
A record-breaking summer saw temperatures soar into dangerous territory for animal welfare across the county. From frozen treats and cool pads to fans and paddling pools, the Little Valley team had to get creative, finding fun and enriching ways to keep our cats and dogs cool and comfortable through the hottest days.
The sunshine also brought with it some wonderful new additions to the shelter team. We are delighted to welcome Animal Care Assistants Beth Stevens, Emma Mills, Sophie Wyer and Will Gooding, while Tom Roberts has joined our reception team and will be a new face greeting visitors on Sundays.
Each new member of staff brings valuable qualities and varied experience, and I’m excited about our future with such a promising team.
Our biggest project by far, the refurbishment of our reception facilities and completion of The Warren, is drawing ever nearer.
As with any ambitious project of this size, we have experienced some unavoidable delays, but the team are excited to see our new facilities taking shape. We’re especially looking forward to finally welcoming rabbits and guinea pigs back on site in the coming months.
This summer has also seen an increase in Little Valley’s community work, particularly around our ‘Inbetweener’ cats.
By thinking beyond the traditional pet home, we have found positive outcomes for a number of cats who may otherwise have struggled to find the right environment. Mylo, Vinnie, Hooper and Mary are just a few examples of cats who have benefited from this approach.
Collaboration with other animal welfare organisations continues to play an important part in helping animals find the right outcome, too.
Earlier this year, RSPCA Bristol Animal Rescue Centre helped us with the transfer of several ferrets, and we are now returning the favour by helping Bristol find suitable placements for a group of Inbetweener kittens.
Although summer has been filled with new beginnings, we have also seen the sun set on the Little Valley careers of some wonderfully dedicated team members.
We bid a fond farewell to Animal Care Assistants Kerry Dunstan and Sara Minter after an incredible 12 and 27 years of service respectively.
We also waved goodbye to our former CEO, Hugh Lowson. After seven years at the helm of Little Valley, Hugh has taken well-deserved early retirement and is hoping to cross every adventure off his wish list!
Kerry, Sara and Hugh have changed countless lives through their hard work and commitment to animal welfare. We thank them for everything they have given to Little Valley and wish them every happiness for the future.
Rhiannon Orris
Deputy Shelter Manager
