It's a busy time of year for the RSPCA, writes Zeena Lemon

Christmas may be the season of goodwill to all men but sadly that doesn't seem to apply to animals, as staff at the Worcester branch of the RSPCA know only too well.

"At this time of year we get calls from people who ask us to take their old pet in to make way for a new one, " explains Geraldine Haynes, who works as a volunteer for the branch, which covers Worcester to Malvern, Upton, Pershore, Redditch, Bromsgrove and Droitwich.

"We also get an influx of unwanted pets about three months after Christmas from people who realise how much work their new pet actually is."

Many animals also come from cruelty and neglect cases. It is an expensive business because not only are there huge vets' bills to be paid, but unwanted animals have to be housed while a suitable home is found. For cats and dogs that means boarding in local facilities, while smaller animals are looked after by "foster parent" volunteers.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of this charity and a small but dedicated group of people give up their time to ensure the welfare of the animals.

From home-visit volunteers, who visit prospective new owners to ensure that animals lucky enough to find another place to live are being placed in a suitable environment, to the people who work in the two RSPCA charity shops, volunteers help unfortunate animals get the happy ending they deserve.

Geraldine says: "Without our band of committed volunteers the cost would be even higher. However, this year we spent £16,000 more than we raised."

The national RSPCA does not fund its Worcestershire branch - all funds for animal welfare and re-homing in the area are raised locally Money comes from the re-homing fees charged for people taking in a new pet, from the shops in Upton-upon Severn and St John's, Worcester, and from a sponsorship scheme.

"We desperately need more people to join our sponsorship scheme to provide regular income. We ask sponsors to pay a monthly cheque or standing order for £3 per month or more and 100 per cent of that goes towards veterinary and boarding fees for the rescued animals waiting for new homes," said Geraldine.

Last year, the charity successfully re-homed 414 animals -- 166 cats, 58 dogs and 190 small animals. It is the policy of the RSPCA to re-home, not destroy, animals -- however long that takes. All rehomed animals are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and identity microchipped before going to their new owners.

How to help

Geraldine says: "We are always looking for new ideas and ways to raise funds." Give fundraising co-ordinator Margaret Wylde a call on 01905 454241. To find out more about ways to help, call Geraldine on 01886 822083 or visit www.rspca-worcester.co.uk. If you are able to offer a loving home to any rescued animal the website will give you all the information you need as well as the chance to see what animals are available at the moment.

Animals are not re-homed during the run up to Christmas but can be reserved for after the festivities because remember, a home is for life -- not just for Christmas.