Bryson's Animal Shelter in Gateshead, a community staple for 79 years, is urgently fundraising to replace its outdated kennel block. The existing six-kennel facility suffers from a leaky roof and inadequate heating, leading to its closure. The shelter, a registered charity, now cannot accommodate as many dogs, impacting its rehoming capacity.
History and Mission
Founded in 1947 by Bill and Marion Bryson, the shelter initially provided sanctuary for retired and ill-treated ponies. It later expanded when Mr Bryson purchased Barrington School, the current site, to house cats, dogs, and smaller animals. The shelter has since rehomed thousands of animals over seven decades.
Current Operations and Impact
With a team of 10 staff, the shelter has already rehomed 141 cats and 61 dogs this year alone. Centre Manager Tracy Holmes emphasized the need for modern facilities: “Our kennel block has been used for decades now, helping numerous animals over the years. It’s now looking very shabby and no longer fit for purpose.” The leaky roof and poor heating have made the block unusable, reducing the shelter's capacity to take in dogs.
Fundraising Goal
To rebuild the kennel block from scratch with modern amenities, the shelter needs approximately £250,000. Holmes stated: “It’s not their fault, they’re with us so we want to give them the best accommodation while they’re with us to reduce their stress levels and keep them as happy and as comfortable as they can be. We want to be here for the next 80 years.” The shelter has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds.
Looking Ahead
As the shelter approaches its 80th anniversary next year, the team hopes the refurbishment will be well underway. The loss of the six kennels means fewer dogs can be taken in, making the fundraising crucial for the shelter's continued operation and ability to serve the community.
