Animal Charity Faces Months of Repairs After Devastating Flood
Date Published: 27 July 2025
An animal rescue centre in Cumbria is facing months of disruption after flash flooding severely damaged its facilities. Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, based in Wetheral near Carlisle, was forced to evacuate around 20 dogs and cats following torrential rain last weekend that overwhelmed the shelter’s drainage system.
Floodwaters Hit Kennels and Cat Rooms
“Our drainage system has taken a real hit,” said CEO Matt Notter. “It’s full of sediment and debris, and repairing that is now our biggest challenge.”
One kennel block has been shut indefinitely as staff assess the damage and begin the long process of repairs. Fortunately, all animals were safely relocated—either to drier areas within the centre, placed with foster carers, or even taken home temporarily by staff.
“We’re surviving, we’re managing,” Mr Notter explained, “but the major impact is that we’ve had to delay new intakes. That’s heartbreaking—for us, and for the people waiting to surrender animals who desperately need our help.”
Community Steps Up—But More Help Needed
Despite the damage, the charity has been lifted by a wave of local support. An online fundraising appeal brought in over £24,000 in just three days, alongside generous in-kind donations from the community.
“It won’t cover all of the damage,” Mr Notter said. “Once you start digging up drains and needing heavy machinery, the costs add up quickly. But we’re incredibly grateful.”
Oak Tree is appealing for further help from individuals and local businesses, especially those in drainage, construction, or landscaping. Offers of temporary foster homes are also welcomed to ease pressure while parts of the shelter remain closed. If you’re in the area and can help, visit their official site at oaktreeanimals.org.uk.
Preparing for the Next Storm
“Right now, our biggest worry is it happening again,” Mr Notter added. “All the animals are currently in areas that didn’t flood—but every time it rains, we’re nervous.”
Founded to help rehome vulnerable cats, dogs, and small animals, Oak Tree Animals’ Charity is one of several UK shelters dealing with extreme weather events—an issue likely to increase as climate patterns shift. For those able to support rehoming organisations through donations, fostering, or equipment loans, the need has never been more urgent.
Final Thoughts
At Halo Dogs Rescue & Rehabilitation Charity, we know how much love, labour, and logistics go into caring for vulnerable animals. Flood damage is devastating—but so is the delay in rehoming pets in need. We stand with Oak Tree Animals’ Charity and others across the UK who work every day to give dogs and cats a second chance, come rain or shine.
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