The RSPCA aims to end cruelty to animals and make the world a kinder place for them. This is what we do to make that happen…

Take in pets that have been rescued by the RSPCA Inspectorate

The animals we receive mainly come to us through being rescued, either by the RSPCA Inspectorate, or by members of the public who have found them abandoned or in crisis.

We prioritise animals that have been rescued by the National RSPCA, our inspectors are on the road every day of the year, responding to calls of cruelty and neglect, and no other charity in the UK does this.

Inspectors rescue pets from all manner of situations who are in desperate need of veterinary care and rehabilitation following trauma. For this reason, we may not be able to take in a pet that is handed in by the public.

We use a close network of foster carers to home and rehabilitate the animals while they await their permanent new homes, with the exception of Paws and Claws, an outdoor rabbit rescue centre in Harwell, and the cattery in Woodstock who occasionally assist us.

Financial Assistance

In 2022 RSPCA Oxfordshire spent £31,215 on animals in our care, including boarding costs, food and vet treatment. We also spent £3,868 helping the inspectors with animals that they had assisted the public with, and £9,863 animal welfare vouchers for members of the public who needed help with their own vet fees.

Rehabilitation

A lot of the animals who come into our care occasionally need special help before they can be found new homes.

Rehabilitation can mean straightforward rest and recuperation, along with any necessary veterinary treatment - but it can also mean something a bit more involved.

Love, patience and understanding

Our centre staff and volunteers patiently get to know each animal so that they can assess the level of rehabilitation needed.

Time is spent cuddling cats, snuggling bunnies and playing with dogs. It may sound like the activities of a lazy Sunday afternoon, but this is serious work.

A cat who is afraid of people may struggle to find a forever home. A rabbit who can’t tolerate human contact may not receive the proper grooming and care, and a dog who doesn't know how to play will appear so quiet and withdrawn that he may never find a family of his own.

Building the confidence of frightened animals, teaching them how to behave using positive training techniques and showing them how good life can be is so important to their rehabilitation.

Help rehabilitate animals

You can help rehabilitate rescued animals who deserve a second chance in life.

Volunteer your time - help give cats, rabbits and dogs in distress a safe place to recover

Become an RSPCA friend - give a little time to your local RSPCA centre