North Clywd Animal Rescue

North Clywd Animal Rescue (NCAR) was founded in 1978 and cared for 1800 domestic pets each year.  When NCAR attended the Academy in January 2018 they, like many rescues, were struggling with the level of intake at their centre. In the past, they always operated at full capacity, filling up the shelter with dogs from their waiting list. They had numerous long-stay dogs, who would be in their care for months or even years, as newer, more desirable dogs, caught the attention of customers.

After coming on the Academy, NCAR immediately recognised the potential benefits of implementing Shelter Metrics. On their return, they reduced the number of dogs at their site from over 100 to 75.

Lowering the occupancy level has had multiple benefits for the rescue; for staff, it has reduced the stress levels associated with caring for high numbers of dogs in kennels; for potential long-stay dogs, having less dogs around has brought them to the attention of customers, allowing them to be rehomed faster. NCAR have been able to reduce their length of stay from over a year in some cases to a few months or even weeks.

It has also opened up kennel space, making them better equipped to deal with emergencies; and allowed them to take in more varied breeds when they come through. This has improved rehoming rates and decreased the number of animals on the waiting list.

Overall it has helped our charity and we are grateful for Battersea's support. We would recommend anyone attending any programmes that the Academy put on, as they are brilliant and exactly what we need - people who have tried it, done it (sometimes failed at it but picked themselves up and made it work!)
So thank you Battersea!
Nicky Owen, Media Relations & Fundraising Manager, North Clwyd Animal Rescue