Three years ago, here at PSU, we made the decision to suspend the usual tradition of offering our customers and suppliers a bottle or two of something festive and instead supported a local charity close to my own heart - Cheltenham Animal Shelter.
This year is no exception as, instead of swelling waistlines and wine racks, for the third year in a row, we're adding to the charity's coffers with a donation of £1,000.
1,500 needy animals and spiralling running costs
Cheltenham Animal Shelter relies purely on the strength of public support to continue its vital work of caring for the 1,500 animals of all shapes and sizes which pass through its doors each year.
The charity has recently completed a major renovation of its current building – expanding its shop and reception area, as well as creating two rehoming offices which allow the complete separation of cats and dogs for the first time. As Deb Barron, Fundraising & PR Manager at the shelter told me, this has made a huge difference to the smooth running of the centre.
Deb said that, as with all the donations they receive, PSU's gift will go some way towards the centre's £500,000 a year running costs – including unenviable gas and water bills associated with heating and cleaning the kennels.
She said: "Thank you to PSU for your continued support, which will help us to care for all the animals here - such as the 180 stray cats we've received over the last 12 months."
Could you help?
But our support doesn't stop there. I've joked in the past that I'm on the shelter's speed dial list – dogged (if you'll excuse the pun) by my complete inability to say no to any animal in need of a loving home. Even today, with two rescue dogs at home, I know that it wouldn't take much for my partner and I to succumb to another sad tale. But joking aside, could you offer a home to an animal in need? Cheltenham Animal Shelter – like many shelters across the UK – features all its homeless animals on its website. Why not take a look and see if you could offer a home for life this Christmas.
Support in any way you can
Of course, if a rescue dog or cat isn't for you right now, Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Association and Cheltenham Animal Shelter could make fantastic use of any donation you choose to make. For example, the shelter has an on-site veterinary surgery offering vital treatment to the animals before new homes are found.
- Just £5 could provide flea and worm treatment for one cat or dog
- £10 would pay for vaccinations for one dog or cat
- While only £15 will feed one cat or dog for a whole month.
Surely, a worthy trade for a good bottle of red?
So, before you draw up your Christmas list, please take a moment and 'paws for thought' for needy animals this festive season and donate now. Thank you from everyone at PSU - and Cheltenham Animal Welfare.
With Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year,
Michael Lounton
Managing Director, PSU Technology Group