Support needed for Leitrim Animal Welfare to continue essential services

The indispensable Leitrim Animal Welfare (LAW) is currently experiencing a financial crisis and is urgently appealing for donations to cover outstanding veterinary bills amounting to €25,000.

The organisation is currently dealing with several challenges such as overcrowding, volunteer shortages and high costs.

“The shelter is experiencing an overwhelming influx of animals, resulting in overcrowded facilities. This situation has been exacerbated by the post-pandemic surge in pet abandonment, where many people who adopted pets during lockdowns are now surrendering them due to changing circumstances,” Megan Gaffney, Manager at LAW explained.

“Additionally, the shelter is facing financial difficulties as operational costs rise, including expenses for animal care, veterinary services, and maintenance of the shelter infrastructure. 

“These financial strains are compounded by fluctuating donation levels, which have not kept pace with the increased demand for services.”

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Funds are critical for the shelter’s operations and are used vastly. Donations to LAW help provide animal care and food, veterinary care, shelter maintenance and staffing. Donations also go towards community outreach programmes, aimed at promoting animal welfare education.

LAW’s services in Leitrim and the surrounding area are indispensable. Not only does LAW provide excellent care for animals, but it was also the first shelter in Ireland to adopt a no-kill policy, ensuring no healthy dog is euthanised. The shelter runs a trap, neuter, and release program to humanely control the feral cat population. The staff, who are trained to respond to emergency situations, including large-scale rescues, also conduct educational programs to ensure the timely safety of animals.

“Community support is vital to the operation and sustainability of LAW. The shelter relies heavily on the generosity of individuals and local businesses for donations and volunteer efforts,” Megan said.

Donations to LAW can be made online through their website at leitrimanimalwelfare.weebly.com/donate or through bank transfer. You can also text “WELFARE” to 50300 to donate €6 a month. LAW also greatly appreciates in-kind donations of animal food, bedding and medicinal supplies.

"Despite our best efforts, we cannot continue the vital work without extra funding. The community's financial support is crucial to sustain our programmes and expand our capacity to help more animals in need.

"Leitrim Animal Welfare's ability to continue providing essential services to animals in need is heavily dependent on the collective efforts and support of the community.

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"Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant difference," Megan stressed.