THE BIGGEST challenge Limerick Animal Welfare (LAW) faced in 2023 was the big increase in the number of unwanted dogs as people returned to their workplaces following Covid.
Marion Fitzgibbon, LAW director, said many of these dogs had been bought as puppies for exorbitant prices during lockdown. She said the rise in the kitten population in their Kilfinane sanctuary is also causing concern.
“We still had kittens coming into the sanctuary in November. We continue to microchip all cats and kittens being rehomed from the sanctuary.
“LAW continues to provide shelter for as many horses and foals as possible. We also provide an equine service and our equine vets treat injured horses that are neglected and abandoned in the city and county. The sanctuary also gives shelter to rabbits, goats, and hens from intensive poultry farms,” said Ms Fitzgibbon.
The charity’s financial position continued to cause concern during 2023.
“The cost of running the sanctuary continued to increase, and our income did not keep pace with expenditure. In addition, due to the increase in rainfall and pressure on old pipework at the sanctuary, it was necessary to undertake huge work on drainage and replacing the old system.
“This was an unexpected expense and put an additional strain on our budget. In the circumstances, the final work on the sanctuary clinic had to be postponed once again,” said Ms Fitzgibbon, who thanked the loyal supporters and volunteers.
“Your donations to Facebook and PayPal ensure that the sanctuary remains open for the intake of animals even during the most difficult times.
“A huge thank you to our wonderful staff for their continuing commitment and loving care of all the sanctuary animals. We have had many heart-warming stories throughout the year. The most rewarding part of our work is when we can save an animal and stop its suffering,” said Ms Fitzgibbon, who also thanked the gardai in Bruff for their help and support throughout 2023.
“We also appreciate the Department of Agriculture grant of €111,600 for 2024. Our budget for this year will be €900,000,” she said.
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