Spring is properly here. The clocks have gone forward, the evenings are stretching out, and there’s finally that feeling of everything waking up again. The daffodils are out, the birds are making a racket at five in the morning, and if you’re a dog walker, you’ll know there’s nothing better than that golden hour stroll after work. It’s been a busy month at the sanctuary too, with animals coming in, animals going home, and plenty happening in between. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s catch you up.
43 Animals Rehomed
What a month!
43 animals found their forever homes in March, and honestly, that number means more to us than you might think.
We’ve noticed adoption enquiries have slowed a little recently, which is something rescues across the country tend to see at this time of year.
So when we look back at a month like this and see 43 animals heading off to start new lives, it really does lift the whole team.
Every single one of those adoptions started with someone taking the time to fill in an application, have the conversation, prepare their home, and make the commitment. None of that is small, and we’re grateful for every one of you who came forward.
So to all adopters this month, thank you.
You’ve made a huge difference, not just to the animals you’ve taken home, but to the ones still here waiting, because every space freed up is another life we can help.
Now, let’s meet them all.
30 Cats
Bertha, Marmalade, William & Humphrey, Tatty, Ellie & Thor, Princess, Teddy, Liberty, Abbie & Ebony, Purdy, Blueberry & Gooseberry, Gorgeous George, Dibaba, Murph, Blackberry & Raspberry, Cookie, Neo & Trinity, Lucky, Mittens, Sonny, Clawdia, Neo & Nova, and Maurice.
See if you can spot some of the naming themes in there. We’ll give you a few hints: one pair raided the fruit bowl, another escaped the Matrix, and at least one has a name their vet might raise an eyebrow at. See how many naming themes you can spot.
It’s always lovely to see our golden oldies find homes. Ellie & Thor, and Mittens were all older cats who had been waiting patiently, and we’re so grateful to their adopters for giving them the retirement they deserve.
8 Dogs
Hallie, Coco, Monty, Mia, Wilf, Luna, Max, and Thyme.
A special mention for Thyme, who had been with us for 251 days. That’s a long time to wait for your person, and we’re over the moon he’s finally settled into a home of his own.
5 Rabbits
Mars, Barnaby, and the trio of Sleepy, Doc & Bashful all found homes this month.
Mars was adopted by some very special people who have adopted from us before, and by all accounts, he’s now living his absolute best life. Thank you to them for coming back to us.
The Joys of Fostering
Being a foster parent isn’t always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding.
Some of you will remember Victoria’s kittens, who had to be hand-reared after Victoria couldn’t produce any milk. Sadly, after what seemed like a smooth start, two of the kittens took a turn for the worse and passed away. It was a heartbreaking time for everyone involved.
But the two pictured above have gone from strength to strength. They’re keeping their foster mum firmly on her toes with round-the-clock milk feeds, and they’re thriving.
We are so lucky to have such a dedicated foster team supporting our animals. We genuinely couldn’t do it without you.
Educating The Next Generation
We’re excited to share the start of a new partnership with Stadhampton Primary School.
Our team recently visited the school to talk to pupils about animal welfare, rescue, and what it really means to care for an animal responsibly.
Over the coming months, we’ll be working together to help young people understand the needs of animals and why so many sadly end up in rescue.
If we want fewer animals needing rescuing in the future, it starts with educating the next generation today. Watch this space.
We Aren’t Easter Bunnies
With Easter around the corner, we want to share an important reminder.
Every year, rabbits are bought on impulse as Easter gifts, and sadly, many end up neglected or abandoned just months later. Rabbits are not easy starter pets. They can live over ten years and need the same level of care, time, and financial commitment as a cat or dog.
Here are a few things to consider before bringing rabbits home:
- A bonded pair can cost around £12,000 or more over their lifetime
- Rabbits are highly social and must live with another rabbit. Loneliness can seriously affect their wellbeing
- They need large, secure housing (minimum 3m x 2m x 1m) with round-the-clock access
- They require a rabbit-savvy vet, and bills can be significant
- Neutering is essential, even for same-sex pairs
- Their diet should be mostly high-quality hay to support healthy teeth and digestion
- They need daily enrichment, space to run, and mental stimulation
Rabbits are sensitive, complex animals who thrive with proper care, but suffer greatly without it. If you’re ready to commit, your local rabbit rescue is the best place to start. They’ll guide you through the right setup, and their rabbits will already be neutered and vaccinated.
If you’re interested in adopting rabbits from us, get in touch with Laura at laura@oascharity.org.uk.
Thank You!
Every adoption, every donation, every share. It all makes a difference. Thank you for helping us give these animals the second chances they deserve.
If you’d like to support our work, you can donate here.
From all of us at Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, here’s hoping spring brings drier days, warmer walks, and plenty more happy endings. Thank you for making them possible.
🐾 The Team at Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary