Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter Awarded £3,150 From the Second Chance Grant 2024

We are thrilled to announce that we’ve awarded Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter £3,150 from our Second Chance Grant initiative. This funding will play a crucial role in providing care, rehabilitation, and the second chance at life that so many animals deserve through veterinary care.

The Second Chance Grant was designed to support animal shelters in their mission to offer neglected and vulnerable pets the opportunity to find loving homes. With this grant, Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter can continue their commitment to rescuing, nurturing, and rehabilitating animals in need, providing them with the care and resources required to rebuild their lives.

Anjuli Hakin, Head of Animal Care, expressed her gratitude for the grant, stating, "This funding from Waggel is invaluable in our efforts to provide comprehensive behavioural training for our animals. Many of the pets we rescue have faced significant trauma and require specialised training to help them adjust and thrive in new, loving homes."

Anjuli continues, “Pet insurance is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership, ensuring that our beloved companions receive the care they need without financial burden. By creating initiatives like Waggel’s Second Chance Grant, insurance companies play a vital role in giving back to the community and fostering the wellbeing of pets everywhere.”

Nana Appiah, Partnerships Manager here at Waggel, shared her perspective on the initiative, stating, "At Waggel, we firmly believe in giving back to the community and supporting charities like Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter. Our Second Chance Grant is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact. We also encourage pet owners to think responsibly about insurance, as it not only safeguards the wellbeing of their pets but also ensures that they can provide the best care possible in times of need."

Funding from our Second Chance Grant will directly contribute to improving the well-being of animals under the care of Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, like Goliath. When Goliath first arrived at the shelter, it was clear he had been through a harrowing ordeal. Abandoned in an empty property after the tenants moved out, this ten-week-old Dachshund was found alone and scared, having survived a week and a half with no one to care for him.

In a severe state, Goliath’s skin was so badly infected that vets initially feared he was suffering from mange or ringworm. To ensure his safety and the safety of others, Goliath was placed in isolation while the dedicated team, dressed in specialist PPE, worked tirelessly to assess and treat his condition. Despite the challenges, Goliath remained gentle and trusting.

Thankfully, after thorough vet checks, Goliath was cleared of any contagious conditions. With a tailored treatment plan in place, he was placed with a foster family where he could start to heal—not just physically, but emotionally too. Surrounded by care and companionship, Goliath began to flourish. He started to socialise with other animals and rediscover his playful, affectionate nature.

Last December, Goliath’s story reached its happy conclusion. He found his forever family just in time for Christmas, trading loneliness for a warm, loving home filled with festive cheer. Goliath’s story is a testament to the resilience of animals and the importance of funding like ours to give animals a second chance at a happy life.

Find out more about our Second Chance Grant programme at https://www.waggel.co.uk/second-chance-grant.