The Barn Animal Rescue

Help little Rhia get her operation and change her life

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:03:51 GMT

Help Us Heal Rhia’s Heart

This is Rhia. She is an 8-year-old dachshund whose world has been turned upside down. After finding herself without a home, she came into our care at The Barn Animal Rescue.

As you can see, Rhia is carrying a lot of extra weight, which is putting her health at risk and stopping her from enjoying the simple joys of life—running, playing, and exploring. Our mission is to help her safely slim down so that, in time, she can have surgery to remove the excess skin. She also has a suspicious growth on her neck that will require investigation as well as surgery. Only then will she truly be able to live the happy, active life every dog deserves.

For now, Rhia is safe and loved in one of our foster homes. She arrived shy, confused, and unsure of her new surroundings, but every day she is being shown patience, care, and kindness. Bit by bit, her confidence is returning and her spirit is beginning to shine again.

We’d love to bring you along on her journey as she heals, transforms, and gets ready for her second chance at happiness.

If you are in a position to help—whether through a donation towards Rhia’s care, her future surgery, or the running of our rescue—we would be so grateful. Every pound goes directly towards giving dogs like Rhia the future they deserve.

Together, we can show Rhia that the best chapters of her story are still to come.

Thank you for being part of her journey, and for supporting The Barn’s work.

A Letter from Akiera

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 17:31:56 GMT

Hello, my name is Akeira. I’ve been waiting here in the kennels for a while now, and I can’t help but wonder when my special someone will come for me. Everyone tells me I’m beautiful and loving, but I think what I need most is for someone to see me- not just as a rescue dog, but as a best friend.

I am approximately five years old now, and I’m full of energy, love, and curiosity. I love adventures! Exploring new places, sniffing the grass, feeling the breeze on my face—it makes my tail wag like nothing else. But do you know what I love just as much? Curling up beside you once the day is done. I may be playful and full of energy, but deep down, I’m also a softy who just wants cuddles and comfort.

I’m eager to learn, too. When you show me new things, my heart lights up because I love making you proud. Training isn’t just about the treats (though I’ll never say no to those!).

Oh, and toys? Let’s just say a soft toy doesn’t last very long with me… but I promise my goofy antics will keep you laughing.

I’ve even had the chance to go home with some of the rescue volunteers, and I loved it! I had no accidents, enjoyed exploring a real home, and absolutely loved getting all the attention. Those visits showed me how wonderful it is to have a family and a comfy home of my own.

Now, to be honest; I’m best suited to being the only dog in the household. I don’t get along with all dogs, and while I can have a successful introduction with some, I really do shine when I have all the love and attention to myself. I can also live happily with children aged 8 and above, and I can’t wait to become part of a family who will love me as much as I’ll love them.

I may have spent time in kennels, but I promise I’m ready for a home filled with love. All I want is a family to love me, keep me safe, and let me be part of their world. In return, I’ll give you endless cuddles, waggy tails, and love forever.

I’m already vet-checked, spayed, and microchipped—and when you adopt me, you’ll even get five weeks of free insurance. But the most important thing you’ll get is me: a faithful friend who will brighten your life every single day.

Could you be the one I’ve been waiting for?

With love,

Akeira

Help Our Beloved Big Bear Get the Care He Needs!

nicola.b32@icloud.com (Nicola Bleakley) — Fri, 09 May 2025 19:01:05 GMT

Please help Our Bear!

For those of you who know our shelter mascot, Big Bear, you understand just how much we adore and love him. Bear has been a cherished member of our family for nearly four years, and we have treasured every moment spent in his company. Unfortunately, Bear has developed painful issues with his hip, which has recently been discovered to be a defect from birth.

He experiences discomfort when walking and has difficulty sitting up, prompting us to take him to our vet. After careful evaluation, our vet has recommended a pain block operation as a temporary solution until we can arrange for a hip replacement. At The Barn Animal Rescue, we are committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure our animals are healthy and comfortable, and Bear is no exception.

To help cover the costs of his surgery, we have set up a fundraiser through a Go Fund Me page. We are reaching out to Bear’s friends and supporters to ask if you could contribute whatever you can to help him receive this necessary pain-relieving operation. Any donation, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated on Bear’s behalf as we work to help this gentle giant become pain-free.

You can find the link to the Go Fund Me page below, or if you prefer, you can donate directly through our PayPal using the link on our Facebook page. Thank you for your kindness and support during this difficult time. Together, we can make a difference for Big Bear!

Help Big Bear Get His Operation - DONATE HERE.

Meet Goldie: A Journey of Healing and Hope

nicola.b32@icloud.com (Nicola Bleakley) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 08:46:37 GMT

We need your help!

We want to share the story of our dear girl, Goldie. Goldie came to the BARN with her friends Rowan, Guinness, and Paddy, all rescued from a pound where their lives were hanging by a thread. Our immediate concern was for Goldie, who arrived in a truly heartbreaking state. Her coat was matted with dirt, and her ears were so thick with old food and grime that they measured nearly three inches.

That very night, Goldie was taken to see our vet, where she received urgent care for her eyes, which were in a shocking condition. Inverted eyelashes were causing her significant irritation and infection, a painful ordeal for such a gentle soul.

Dr. Jane worked tirelessly to clean the infection and began a medical treatment plan for her eyes. Once she arrived at the shelter, Goldie was offered a nourishing meal and a chance to spend her first night in a warm, cosy bed—something she so desperately needed.

Last Wednesday, Goldie underwent surgery to address her upper eyelashes, allowing them to move away from her eyes. The procedure was successful, and we hold onto hope for her complete recovery.

We invite you to follow Goldie’s journey as she continues to heal. If you feel moved to support her treatment, please consider donating through our PayPal or directly at Rathgael Vets: DONATE HERE

Thank you for your kindness and support; every donation makes a difference in the lives of the animals we care for at the rescue.

JACKO is being adopted

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 16:06:32 GMT

Jacko is on the move after 3 years with the BARN

Wee Jacko who has been with the BARN for approx 3 years has finally met his new dad - Gerard. We as a team cannot be happier for the wee man as he has waited for so long now. He is testament to what patience and love will do to help a difficult dog with issues settle into his home. We wish you and your dad luck and a long life together.

THINKING OF ADOPTING A RESCUE DOG OR CAT?...READ THIS FIRST

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 15:26:32 GMT

THINKING OF BRINGING A RESCUE DOG OR CAT INTO YOUR HOME

So you've made the decision as a family that you want to adopt a rescue cat or dog, well good for you. Here at the BARN we have a big selection of cats and dogs all looking for their new furever homes. At the BARN we care for everyone of our rescue animals and make sure that they get fully vaccinated and microchipped before they go to their new homes. If the animal is ready and old enough they will also visit our vet for neuter or spaying before leaving us.

Before you decide on what animal you wish to adopt you must be sure that you are ready to bring a new furbaby to your home, if this is the case then visit this website or our Facebook page to see what animal you may feel suits you best. Please note that not all our animals will suit your particular situation but our friendly approachable team will help you through this with advise and guidance. Whether a dog or cat we will help you find your companion animal to live in your home.

Be mindful that dogs can live for around 15 years and cats around 10 years, obviously this varies so please be sure you can commit to this as they will be part of your family and have needs for the length of their lives. They will require veterinary treatment in the form of vacc ination boosters yearly and lets face it illnesses and accidents do happen!

HOW DO WE DECIDE ON REHOMING (DOGS)

Each of our dogs have different expectations when it comes to their new home, Some are good with cats, children or other dogs, we need to evaluate your home to make sure that your new furbie will fit in to your circumstances. This is a very important part of the process as we want to ensure our adoptions stay in their new families.

CATS ADOPTIONS

O ur cats and kittens have similar requirements when it comes to going into a new home. We will advise you whether they will be suitable regarding dogs, cats or children in the home. One requirement we must consider is should you live near a main or busy road. This is vital for cats as we know they like to roam and stray so safety if a priority when we consider where our kitties go, We're sure you can sympathise with this direction.

DOGS - Once you have met your potential adoption dog you will be asked to walk them off site in order to see what they are like away from the rescue. This helps everyone including the dog to decide whether to move on to the next stage which is a home visit. Your rehomer will arrange to pay a short visit to you home to ensure that the garden is secure. There may be something that needs addressed which you may have overlooked and our rehomer will give advice on this. Don't worry though, the visit is informal and is purely to ensure our dogs are safe when coming to your home. Once the home visit is cleared your new furbie will come and stay with you for the weeks homestay.

Bringing a new adoption into your home is exciting and we are here to help the dog and your family adjust to this. We will keep in touch over the weeks homestay to offer help and advise if needed. Your rehomer is only a call away if you have a question.

Carlos away on his homestay

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:37:18 GMT

Carlos on a homestay

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Beautiful Zac crosses rainbow bridge

barnmanagerdirect@gmail.com (Glenn Ford) — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 13:24:56 GMT

Big Zac

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Meet our newest rescue BADGER

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 14:44:04 GMT

BADGER found on Black Mountain

Badger was found in Black Mountain, Belfast all alone. He was rescued by a kind couple who took him to Earlswood vet. He was examined and it was obvious he had a damaged left eye caused by some unknown trauma, Earlswood contacted the BARN and we agreed to bring into the rescue. It would appear that Badger may have been used for baiting at some point which we believe caused his injuries. He has been treated for worms and fleas and will be going to visit our vet tomorrow (Wednesday) to establish what other care he will need. We think he may loose his eye as it seems to badly damaged at this time.

However Badger is a friendly lad who we think is around 3/4 years old, he has a super appetite as he is constantly sniffing and grabbing at the volunteers hands for food. The tail never stops wagging and he enjoys running about the yard. We will bring you more on Badger after he visits the vet tomorrow.

27 Nov 2024

Badger went to visit our vets at Rathgeal today to have his eye examined. As expected the injury to the eye was beyond help and it was decided to remove it as he would be experiencing pain. He was admitted to the surgery there and then where Dr Jane would operate later today. Last update is, he has come through the surgery and is well. He is sleepy still so will collect him later this afternoon and bring a further update.

Our Beautiful Girl Chance

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:06:21 GMT

The Heartwarm ing Journey of Chance: From Despair to Hope

Recently, a heartbreaking story unfolded as a young puppy named Chance came to our shelter, having been left at a vet with the intention of being put to sleep. Fortunately, the compassionate team at the vet contacted Lost Paws NI - Lost and Found Pets for help, and without hesitation, they brought her to The Barn Animal Rescue. This was just the beginning of Chance's journey, and we are determined to give her every opportunity to thrive.

Meet Chance

Chance is only seven months old—a baby who deserves a loving home but has already faced unimaginable hardship. When she arrived, she was covered in mange, her little body was dehydrated, and she was incredibly sick. We immediately took her to our trusted vet, Rathgael Vets, where Dr. Kirsty and her dedicated team began a thorough assessment. Sadly, the conclusion was that Chance was extremely ill and would require extensive veterinary care over the coming weeks.

A New Beginning

Despite her rough start, we are committed to giving Chance every possible chance to recover. She has never known the warmth of a loving home, and we are determined to change that. Our team is ready to provide her with the medical attention she desperately needs, and we believe that with the right care, she can overcome these challenges.

How You Can Help

We are reaching out to our wonderful community for support. If you can, please consider donating to help cover Chance's medical expenses. Every little bit helps us provide the care she needs to get well and eventually find her forever home. Donations can be made directly to our vets through their website or via our rescue's PayPal, just remember to mention 'Chance' and select the family and friends option.

Donate Here

A Glimmer of Hope

We are thrilled to share that Chance is starting to respond to her treatment! She has discovered the joy of tasty chicken, something we suspect she has never tasted before. So, we are also relieved to report that she is now eating solid food, meaning the feeding tube is no longer necessary.

We will provide another update soon, but for now, we are grateful for the exceptional care she is receiving and the outpouring of love and hope from all of you.

Thank you to everyone who has already donated to Chance’s care. Your kindness is making a real difference in her life, helping us to provide her with the love and attention she truly deserves. Together, we can help Chance turn her story from one of despair into one of hope and recovery.

Stay tuned for more updates on this sweet girl!

LATEST UPDATE FOR CHANCE - 24/2/2025

Chance (now Mabel) has been living with Dr Kirsty since she was rescued. Together they have built up a wonderful bond along with Kirsty's other dogs they have become a wee family. So the good news is that she is going to stay with Kirsty and remain part of the family. We at the BARN could not be happier for them. Remembering the horrible condition that Mabel was in when she arrived here, unable to hardly put a paw in front of the other to what she is now a thriving energetic girl who just loves life. This is a lot to do with the care and support given by all of you to help her get on track to her new life. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts

Introducing Your New Rescue Animal to Your Home...

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 11:23:37 GMT

Help Us Make a Difference: Support The Barn Animal Rescue Wishlist!

Introduction:

Bringing a new rescue animal into your home is a rewarding experience that can change both your life and the life of the animal. However, it's important to approach this transition with patience and care. At The Barn Animal Rescue Centre, we understand the importance of creating a safe and loving environment for your new furry friend. In this blog post, we will provide you with valuable tips and advice on how to introduce your new rescue animal to your home with patience, ensuring a smooth and successful transition for both of you.

1. Prepare Your Home:

Before bringing your new rescue animal home, it's crucial to create a safe and comfortable space for them. Start by selecting a quiet room where they can gradually acclimate to their new surroundings. Remove any potential hazards, such as toxic plants or fragile objects. Set up their bedding, food, and water bowls, as well as a litter box for cats. By preparing your home in advance, you'll help your new pet feel secure and at ease.

2. Gradual Introduction:

Remember that your new rescue animal may have experienced trauma or stress in the past, so it's important to introduce them to their new home gradually. Start by allowing them to explore their designated room at their own pace. Provide them with toys, treats, and comfortable hiding spots to help them feel safe. Spend time in the room with them, talking softly and offering gentle reassurance. Gradually expand their access to other areas of the house as they become more comfortable.

3. Establish a Routine:

Animals thrive on routine, so establishing a consistent schedule from the beginning is essential. Set regular feeding times, walks, play sessions, and potty breaks. This will help your new rescue animal feel secure and understand what is expected of them. Consistency and predictability will go a long way in building trust and confidence.

4. Patience and Bonding:

Building a strong bond with your new rescue animal takes time and patience. Allow them to approach you on their own terms and avoid overwhelming them with too much attention. Offer gentle petting and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reward good behavior and gradually build trust. Remember, every animal is unique, so be patient and adapt your approach based on their individual needs.

5. Seek Professional Guidance:

If you encounter challenges during the introduction process, don't hesitate to seek professional guidance. Animal behaviorists or trainers can provide valuable insights and techniques to help you address specific issues. The Barn Animal Rescue Centre is always here to offer support and guidance throughout your journey.

Conclusion :

Introducing a new rescue animal to your home is a beautiful and compassionate act. By approaching the process with patience, care, and understanding, you can help your new furry friend feel safe, loved, and valued. Remember, building a strong bond takes time, so be patient and allow your new rescue animal to adjust at their own pace. The Barn Animal Rescue Centre is proud to support you in this journey and wishes you a lifetime of happiness with your new companion.

Volunteer With Us!

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:20:48 GMT

Join The Barn Animal Rescue: Be a Volunteer and Make a Difference!

Are you an animal lover with a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of our furry friends? Look no further! The Barn Animal Rescue is seeking dedicated and compassionate individuals like you to join our team of volunteers. By giving your time and skills, you can play a vital role in providing love, care, and support to animals in need. In this post, we will explore the various opportunities available at The Barn and the incredible benefits of volunteering with us.

1. Animal Care and Rehabilitation:
Volunteering at The Barn Animal Rescue offers the unique chance to work hands-on with our cats and dogs. As a volunteer, you will be involved in their daily care, including feeding, grooming, and providing companionship. You will also have the opportunity to help with animal rehabilitation, assisting in their recovery from illness or injury. By dedicating your time, you will directly impact the well-being and happiness of these animals, giving them a second chance at life.

2. Educational Programs and Outreach:
Volunteering at The Barn is not just about animal care; it is also an opportunity to educate and inspire others about animal welfare. As a volunteer, you may have the chance to participate in educational programs and outreach events, where you can share your knowledge and passion for animals with the community. By raising awareness and promoting responsible pet ownership, you will be making a lasting impact on both animals and people.

3. Personal Growth and Fulfillment:
Volunteering is not only beneficial for the animals but also for you! By becoming a volunteer at The Barn, you will gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and enhance your personal growth. Working with animals teaches empathy, patience, and compassion, qualities that can positively impact all aspects of your life. Moreover, being surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your love for animals creates a supportive and fulfilling community.

4. Building Connections and Making Memories:
Volunteering at The Barn provides an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow animal enthusiasts, volunteers, and staff members who share your passion. It’s a chance to build lasting friendships, create memories, and be part of a community that cares deeply for animals. The bonds you form with both animals and people will undoubtedly enrich your life and create lifelong connections.

Conclusion:
By volunteering at The Barn Animal Rescue, you have the power to make a real difference in the lives of animals in need. Whether you choose to help with their daily care, participate in educational programs, or contribute in any other way, your efforts will have a profound impact. Join us today and become part of a dedicated team working towards a common goal – providing a safe and loving environment for animals and promoting animal welfare. Together, we can create a brighter future for all creatures great and small.