Animal charity adapts to community needs

Margaret Green Animal Rescue said the charity was celebrating its 60 year anniversary

A Devon animal charity said it was spearheading change alongside others in the sector by adapting its model to match evolving community needs.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue (MGAR) said as part of celebrating its 60th anniversary it wanted to inspire a positive shift in perceptions for the animal rescue sector.

The charity, which has Wingletang Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Tavistock, said it has rehomed more than 60,000 animals since 1965.

CEO Nigel Mason said: "Over the past 60 years, MGAR has significantly evolved its sector model in line with dramatic societal changes and demands."

"When the charity was in its infancy, our model was based on fulfilling high demand; building centres that could take in lots of animals, generally located outside of towns to reduce noise and disruption," said Mr Mason.

He said that model worked about 60-years-ago but in the last 10 years, it has become less effective due to social media being a more attractive channel for people to find pets.

He said: "What's more, the animal rescue charity sector isn't legally regulated, meaning anyone could set up an organisation, regardless of quality.

"Worryingly, responsible rescue charities like ours have become a last resort for rehoming."

Mr Mason said the Covid-19 pandemic also set the charity back and it was still "picking up the pieces" as people obtained pets that are now in its rescue centres due to owners not being able to care for them.

He said: "As a result, there's been a significant imbalance in the number of animals needing care and the number of appropriate rehomers.

"In response to these changes, we are transitioning to a new model.

"While our core centres remain a key focus, we're also becoming far more integrated and visible among our communities through proactive engagement.

"Animals are a huge part of communities, so getting to the heart of them is key."