Animal shelter is 'my happy place' says volunteer

Ann Chard with rabbit, Ham, at Animal Care

When Ann Chard first dropped off blankets at an animal shelter 25 years ago she never imagined she would be returning there every day.

But the 69-year-old did exactly that, admitting she has found her "happy place" as a volunteer at Lancaster's Animal Care charity.

Since joining as a volunteer, Ann has helped rehome hundreds of animals, volunteering in all weathers and all the days of the week because, as she says, "animals can't open a tin of food themselves".

"This is where I want to be".

"All the staff here are the same, they would do anything for the animals," she says.

"It's a passion," she adds.

Ann, from Caton, Lancashire, has been described as an "inspiration" to the shelter, which has been taking in animals since 1978.

"Come rain, shine, when it's icy or snowing, she's here - and she's totally dedicated to the animals in her care," says Animal Care education and fundraising officer, Stephanie Weber.

Ann Chard has become an expert carer of rabbits, and has helped rehome many over the years

Animal Care rehomes 800 animals a year, including cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens.

They rely on donations and volunteers, like Ann, to help keep the centre running.

Ann has become expert at handling and caring for rabbits and guinea pigs, and has helped rehome many animals since she began volunteering at the centre.

Jane Demmen, who has rehomed six rabbits under Ann's watch, says she is "truly dedicated" to her role.

"It's all behind-the-scenes" she adds.

"When I adopted the rabbits, they're always in excellent physical health and at the stage where they are ready to bond with human beings and become a happy family pet.

"That is all because of Ann's extraordinary care and rehabilitation skills."

Meanwhile, Ann continues to revel in her "happy place" and says she has "no plans on stopping anytime soon".