While based in Kerry, Animal Heaven Animal Rescue (AHAR) started when Suzanne Gibbons, then aged 8, began taking in unwanted animals that had been dumped on the streets of Cork city.
"I was lucky that (my parents) had three large gardens and a huge shed," she explains.
As word about Suzanne's charitable efforts got out, more and more animals were left at her gate. "At one stage I had up to ten dogs, loads of cats, hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, wild birds with broken wings, goats and three monkeys."
Today AHAR rescues an average of more than 1,550 animals a year, not counting an additional average of 200 goats (sent to AHAR from sustainable energy company Caoillte) and between 400 and 600 battery hens.
The charity requires a minimum of five volunteers daily. Rescued animals are well fed, get plenty of exercise and are vaccinated, wormed, treated for fleas and neutered before re-homing.
To find out how to donate or volunteer for AHAR visit their website. You can also send an email or call them at 086 107 6729.
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