Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary

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Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary

Hope for the Future

Text HELPCLAS 5 to 70460 to pledge £5 monthly. Visits by appointment! Once upon a time there were two horses called Kim and Candy.

Sadly that was where the fairytale ended. Their story is the story of Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary, or at least the beginnings of it. The failure of the animal welfare system in Northern Ireland to look after Kim and Candy prompted me to apply for charitable status in 1996. The subsequent years have been full of heartache, tears, anger and ultimately triumph. I promised myself that, whilst Ki

m and Candy had been failed by the welfare system and the ignorance of the rescue centre they were placed in, the horses, ponies and donkeys who came into the care of CLAS would never be denied the love and attention they so desperately deserved. Crosskennan on opening our gates were for equines; horses ponies and donkeys but we have never turned any animal in need away when we can help them. Over the years we have helped an average of 400 animals annually and now in our 25th year we are home to an average of 150 animals on a long term or permanent residency. The last 25 years certainly have not been easy but have made us all the more determined to improve the situation in Northern Ireland. Ignorance is a great stumbling block and time and time again we have found ourselves up against it. It is ignorance that allows a mare to be locked up in a stable in filth for years without regular food or water or exercise. It is ignorance that allows 13 cats to be left to fend for themselves, turning wild and fighting among themselves, in a house after the owner passed away. And it is ignorance that allows a trotting horse to be driven to his death on a public road. Old habits die hard and attitudes are firmly entrenched but we are determined to fight on to make Northern Ireland a better place for all animals. In the meantime, however, we will continue with our educational and cross community approach to animal welfare. Through our Animal's Helping People workshops and training we hope that the next generation of animal owners will be wiser and more informed than this one. Our story isn’t all doom and gloom though. We have the support of many kind people, friends and volunteers who keep the sanctuary running. We also have many success stories. The mare walled up in misery and filth now has a super home and 12 of the 13 cats have all been treated, spayed, and rehomed: living wonderful lives with new families. We may have helped these animals but their triumphs are down to them. They are a testimony to the resilience of animals to overcome psychological and physical abuse and neglect. Their ability to forgive mankind for the terrible deeds inflicted upon them is surely one of the most amazing phenomena of life. Our work has taught us many lessons, some of them humbling, some of them inspiring, all of them worth learning. Our motto is ‘Hope for the future: Help us trust Again’ and it will be for as long as it takes to make a difference in Northern Ireland. We realise that we cannot change the world but that doesn’t stop us trying.

13/11/2024

Today, despite already being completely at capacity… we took in 10 cats and kittens.

They were brought to us by a landlord whose elderly tenant has been taken into hospital. Unfortunately once we heard the circumstances and saw photographs of where they had been living, we knew they badly needed our help.

There are 4 adults, 4 older kittens and 2 tiny kittens who are very, very sick. For now, the 8 older cats are comfortable, warm and fed here at the sanctuary, and the smallest kittens are with our vets, who will give them every possible chance at survival. As you can see in the photos the tiny tabby kitten had an eye that needed removed, this surgery is underway. The little black kitten is currently on a drip and antibiotics, and we are hoping he is strong enough to pull through, but at this point it’s touch and go.

They are all terrified right now, but they are beautiful and friendly cats. It’s clear they are incredibly grateful to have a warm, clean bed and some food tonight.

To put it simply… we were not expecting 10 extra mouths to feed, not to mention the veterinary care they are all needing. But how could we turn them away when they so badly needed us? We know most people don’t have a lot to spare at this time of year, but even a small amount will help massively in covering the cost of their care…

Welcome to Crosskennan little ones… you are safe here ❤️

13/11/2024

🐱 Cats & Coffee Christmas Edition - December 7th 🐱
Sybil the cat is all set for her close-up and ready to greet visitors at the Cats & Coffee Christmas event! Enjoy a cozy hour with hot drinks, holiday treats, and some feline company in our festive cabin. 🎅☕

🎫 Reserve your session: www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/events-1/cats-coffee-christmas-event-2024-12-07-11-10
📩 Questions? [email protected]

12/11/2024

🎅 Christmas Pony Party - December 21st 🎅
Lucas the horse is getting into the holiday spirit with a Christmas wreath! Join us for a magical day featuring pony rides, sweet treats, and a visit from Santa. Don’t miss the chance to meet Lucas and other festive friends! 🎁🎉

🎫 Get your tickets now: www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/events-1/christmas-pony-party-2024
📩 Contact us at [email protected]

12/11/2024

🎄 Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary Christmas Ballot 2024 🎄

Help support our sanctuary animals this winter by purchasing tickets for our Christmas Ballot 2024! Every ticket purchased goes directly towards essential winter care like heating, feed, bedding, and vet bills to keep our animals safe, warm, and comfortable.

🎟 Amazing Prizes to Be Won!
1️⃣ £200 Cash
2️⃣ £100 Cash
3️⃣ £50 Cash
4️⃣ £100 Voucher for Creative Gardens
5️⃣ Carvery for 2 at The Dunadry Hotel
6️⃣ Round of Golf for 4 at Shandon Park Golf Course
7️⃣ Baskets Galore Gourmet Cheese + Wine Hamper
8️⃣ £40 M&S Voucher
9️⃣ £30 Tesco Voucher
🔟 Box of Red Wine

🎫 Tickets: Just £1 each!

📅 Draw Date: Friday, December 20th, 3 PM at Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary

🌐 How to Buy: Purchase tickets online here! https://www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/product-page/christmas-ballot-2024

Why We Need Your Support
Winter is the toughest season for our sanctuary, with monthly costs over £20,000. Your ticket purchase helps cover vital expenses like heating, food, and bedding for our rescue animals, ensuring they stay healthy and comfortable throughout the cold months.

Every Ticket Makes a Difference! By joining the Christmas Ballot, you're directly contributing to the care and well-being of our animals.

Get your tickets today and help us make this winter safe and cozy for our beloved sanctuary residents. 🎅🐾 Thank you, and good luck!

11/11/2024

William admiring the view over our brilliant new door today! Thank you so much to Stephen for making and installing it 🥰

11/11/2024

📣 Urgent Call for Cat Fosterers! 📣
Please Share!

We’re in immediate need of compassionate foster carers to help us rescue more cats. Right now, we’re over capacity and with cat adoption rates at an all time low - the need is urgent. We’re getting reports of stray cats needing our help but without foster homes, we cannot offer the support they deserve.

🐈 What Does a Fosterer Do? 🐈
As a fosterer, you’ll be giving a temporary loving home to a cat:
- Providing a safe, warm space.
- Caring for daily needs (feeding, litter box, socialisation & grooming).
- Administering any required medication/ ensuring they get to any vet appointments.
- Communication - sharing updates so that we can find them the perfect forever home.
- Allowing meet & greets in your home with any potential adopters we approve.

🐈‍⬛ What Do You Need to Foster? 🐈‍⬛
- If you don’t own your home, you must have your landlords approval.
- Be 18 or older.
- Previous experience caring for an animal.
- Any other pets must be fully vaccinated and cat friendly. The cat must have access to a room away from any other pets.

Food, litter & veterinary expenses will be covered by us.

🐱 Ready to Make a Difference? 🐱
If you have the space and heart to foster a cat - we would love to hear from you!

📧 Email us at: [email protected] to register your interest & receive an application form.

Successful applicants will be invited to the sanctuary to learn more, ask questions & receive additional guidance. Our team will be readily available to support you throughout the entire fostering process.

Thank you for helping us save lives!

11/11/2024

Ted has been missing in the Cherryvalley area of East Belfast since Saturday. It is very unlike him not to come home and his owner is very worried.

Please share and contact Alex on 07525 865383 with any leads or sightings.

10/11/2024

Support Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary This Winter! 🌟

Meet Tina and Minnie, two of our oldest residents, enjoying a warm and cozy bed this winter. Rescued years apart, they've become inseparable friends, finding peace and comfort together here at Crosskennan. Tina joined us as an adult cat in 2013, and Minnie came to us in 2008. Although still shy around strangers, they both enjoy a bit of quiet attention and, most importantly, each other’s company.

❤️ Your support helps us continue providing care and warmth for sweet souls like Tina and Minnie, who have found a lifelong home here at the sanctuary.

At Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary, every donation makes a world of difference to the lives of our animals. Whether it’s through loose change, a monthly gift, or a one-time donation, here are all the ways you can help:

Cash Donations 💰
Every penny counts! We can provide collection boxes for homes or businesses to collect spare change. Place a box in your shop or office and watch the impact grow!

Text-to-Donate 📲
For a quick way to support, simply text HELPCLAS followed by an amount to 70460. This is a recurring donation, added to your phone bill or deducted from pay-as-you-go credit. To stop donations, just text STOP anytime.

Online Card Donations 💳
Visit our website to make secure card donations directly through our Shop page:
https://www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/donate

Bank Transfer 🏦
An efficient way to help is via bank transfer. Please include your name and address in the reference for a receipt.
Danske Bank
Sort Code: 950202
Account Number: 31184288

For queries, reach out to [email protected]

Cheques ✉️
You can also send a cheque to support our animals. Please make it payable to Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary and send it to:
Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary
26 Crosskennan Lane
Antrim
BT41 2QY

Fundraising Platforms 🌐
Donate or set up your own fundraiser for us on:

PayPal Giving: https://www.paypal.com/GB/fundraiser/charity/131673
Just Giving: https://www.justgiving.com/crosskennanlaneanimalsanctuary
People’s Fundraising: https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/wall/crosskennan-lane-animal-sanctuary
These platforms make it easy to support or start your campaign. Don’t forget to tick “yes” for Gift Aid if eligible!

Thank you for helping us keep our animals safe, warm, and well-cared-for this winter. Your generosity fuels the love and care they receive every day! 💖

10/11/2024

❤️

10/11/2024

Theodore you look very cute with your little forelock plait 🤣🥰

09/11/2024

Thank you! We want to thank Nicholas for the donation of cat food after the loss of London the cat: who was named after the dog from the littlest hobo. We loved your story London, and it was clear you were quite the character.

Thank you so much for thinking of us.

09/11/2024

Good morning from the sanctuary… come a short walk around the barn as we see what needs done!

09/11/2024

Jumping into the weekend 💕🥰

08/11/2024

Got to love our swamp monsters, give them a field to rake in the winter 🤣🤣🤣🙃🙃🙃🙈🙈🙈

08/11/2024

📚🐾 Why We’re Running Storytime at the Sanctuary! 🐾📚

At Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary, we believe in the profound impact animals can have on people’s well-being. Our Animals Helping People programme is dedicated to supporting those who want to boost their reading confidence, build self-esteem, and even improve literacy. That’s why we’re launching Storytime at the Sanctuary – an animal-assisted reading experience open to anyone who could benefit from the calming, non-judgmental presence of our animals.

🌟 Why Storytime? Research shows that animals create a comforting environment that reduces stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that reading to animals helps people build confidence, focus, and increase comprehension without the fear of judgment or correction. This experience isn’t just for those who struggle with reading – even experienced readers who may feel self-conscious speaking aloud can find new confidence and joy in this supportive, unique setting.

Boosting Literacy and Self-Esteem Animals provide gentle, silent support, making them wonderful “listeners” who are always happy to hear a story. Studies on animal-assisted therapy reveal that these interactions can help with:

Improving literacy skills: Reading aloud to a calm and friendly animal creates a non-judgmental space that encourages practice, which naturally builds literacy and fluency.

Building confidence and self-esteem: The animals’ calm, encouraging presence reduces anxiety and boosts self-confidence, a foundation for growth in other areas.

Stress Reduction: The simple act of spending time with animals is known to reduce cortisol levels, helping readers relax and focus on their words.

💖 The Benefits for Our Animals Many of our rescue animals thrive on gentle, kind companionship. Through Storytime, they receive calm, positive interaction in a setting that respects their well-being. Not all of our animals participate, of course – only those who are comfortable with the activity, as animal welfare is a top priority for us. Those who can’t work directly in our programme still benefit indirectly, as funds raised from these sessions help cover their care, shelter, and support needs.

Storytime at the Sanctuary is an inclusive experience, designed for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re looking to improve reading skills, conquer a bit of stage fright, or simply enjoy reading with a friend who happens to be a furry one, we welcome you!

For more information or to book a session, visit https://www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/events-1/storytime-at-the-sanctuary or email [email protected] and join us for an experience that supports your growth and the well-being of our rescue animals. 🐱📖🐶

08/11/2024

Sometimes… you think you’ve done everything right but it still doesn’t work out.

Unfortunately this week Elsie was returned to us.
We have a long process of evaluating the dogs that come into our care, working with them daily and determining what sort of home would be the best fit for them. Then we have meet and greets, home checks and offer continued support to the new family once the dog is in their home.

Elsie is a very loving dog, and in our experience was just happy to meet every new person she encountered at the sanctuary. So when we heard this didn’t seem to be the case in her new home, we were shocked and devastated.

While we understand the decision made by Elsie’s home, we want to stress the importance of doing enough research before bringing a new dog into your home.

A week is not enough time for a dog to settle into an entirely new environment with a new and unfamiliar family. It is normal for any animal to have an adjustment period while they take time to decompress, learn to trust their new owners and process the big change they have just gone through. It is often said it takes a dog 3 weeks to start to feel comfortable in their new home, and around 3 months to fully acclimate to their new environment and routine.

Experiences like these stay with a dog, we don’t have the luxury of explaining to Elsie why she is back with us, or to ask her what happened in the week she was away. We are all heartbroken for her… but all we can do is hope that things will only get better for her now.

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Good morning from the sanctuary… come a short walk around the barn as we see what needs done!

So Hercules just wanted to remind people… just because the horse is shiny doesn’t mean they are clean! Should have moved around to show that this is only shiny spot him as Hercules enjoyed the mud a little too much! Mud monsters unite! But he did shine up easily when the surface mud was brushed off, but underneath he was very dusty! We are going to need full time volunteers for mud removal this winter! 🤦🏻‍♀️😂 If you would like to sign up to help us out with the horses please get in touch - just email [email protected] #volunteering #crosskennanlanesanctuary #northernireland #antrim #belfast #horserescue

Who’s Coming Along to Our Pony Pals Camp? 🎃👻 Last year’s Halloween Pony Party was a spooktacular success, and we’re thrilled to bring it back this year with even more fun! Check out some of the fantastic photos from last year’s event to see what’s in store. 🧙‍♀️🐴 This year, we’re inviting all the kids to join us in decorating the ponies for Halloween! Let’s make it a fun and creative experience for everyone. Here are the details of our two upcoming events: 26th October: Ridden Camp • Time: 1 PM - 3 PM • Activities: Groundwork games, Halloween-themed activities, and a chance to ride our rescue ponies and horses. • Cost: £25 per child 30th October: Non-Ridden Camp • Time: 11 AM - 1:30 PM • Activities: Groundwork, handling, and Halloween-themed crafts and games. This is a no-riding required event, perfect for all experience levels! • Cost: £25 per child 👻 Don’t miss out on the pony cuddles, fun games, and the chance to dress up for Halloween! Costumes are optional but highly encouraged for extra spooky fun! Every child will also receive a Halloween-themed treat. Book Now: Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot today! Visit www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/whats-on for more information and to book your place. Let’s make this Halloween one to remember with our wonderful rescue ponies and horses! 🎃

When you love Greys 🙈🤣

Takeaway anyone 🤣Vision packing his lunch for the field 🤣 Chica finding the walking buffet hilarious

Mimi settling in 🐶🤎

Maise: Collie x setter Seeking a friend for life! This lovely young girls only 8months old previously from a home with other dogs, but hasn't had much socialisation outside of the home. In her few weeks with us she's been working hard, gaining confidence. Maise has been practicing meeting new people and working on the lead. She is absolutely gorgeous, would love an active home to continue her training and help her explore the world. Maise is good with cats, and children, has shown herself to be a superstar in her kennel keeping her space clean and tidy. If you could offer Maise a sofa of her very own please fill in an application at https://www.crosskennanlane.co.uk/dog-re-homing-application?fbclid=IwY2xjawEsffJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHa_mODnj_NmmAYKPQrxnXjDqLOrHO_NZkjVU0X1ktzfoeDRInBKlyTNOpw_aem_PZBckJGqfoMQzXjZDaYhlA

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