General public and charities rally to help dogs' home that was ravaged by fire
Members of the public have now donated more than £1.4 million on Just Giving to help the Manchester Dogs' Home, after a fire ravaged through the site last week.
With the help of the home's staff and courageous members of the public, fire crews were able to save around 150 dogs, but it is thought about 50 tragically perished in the fire.
The majority of the surviving dogs have been moved to the home's sister site, Cheshire Dogs' Home near Warrington.
Greater Manchester Police were called to the home in Harpurhey at around 7.20pm on Thursday, September 11. Firefighters worked throughout the night to bring the fire under control.
A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of arson and has been bailed pending further enquiries.
Due to overwhelming support from the public, the Cheshire Dogs Home has had to close its doors as the M6 and M56 were gridlocked over the weekend with well-wishers attempting to make their way to the home.
Detective inspector Neil Jones, said: "The response from the public has been overwhelming and this is clearly an incident that has tugged on the heart strings of many.
"A number of people, including police officers and staff were quickly on the scene and put their life on the line to help with the rescue effort."
Donations to a Just Giving page, set up by the Manchester Evening News, reached £1 million in just 24 hours. Donations now top £1.4 million.
In a statement on its website, the dogs' home thanked members of the public, local businesses and other charities for stepping in to help. It also commended its staff, who witnessed atrocious sights on Thursday night.
"We owe a great thanks to Animal Wardens, Dogs Trust Manchester, Pennine Pen and numerous RSPCA inspectors for their assistance in transport to other kennels for the dogs that survived, there are too many individuals to thank by name."
Image courtesy of Greater Manchester Police
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
