Community rallies to save Islay Dog Rescue from closure

A Cumnock-based dog rescue that feared it would have to close within weeks has been given a vital lifeline after a wave of public donations poured in over the weekend.

Photo: Islay Dog Rescue

Islay Dog Rescue, run by Lorraine Jardine and a team of volunteers from Glen Islay Farm, had announced on Saturday that it was facing closure within three weeks due to severe financial difficulties.

In a heartfelt appeal shared on Facebook, the rescue said: “We will close in 3 weeks. So, this is a post I'd hoped not to make. However, the reality is, along with lots of other rescues in the country, we are against the wall financially... We have enough money to last three weeks.”

The post explained that if just a fraction of the rescue's 25,000 followers donated the price of a coffee each month, Islay Dog Rescue could survive, allowing it to continue saving dogs in need.

However, less than 24 hours later, a remarkable update was shared.

“Well, I am truly humbled and cannot thank you all enough,” the follow-up post read. “It is fair to say I have been beyond worried thinking that we were going to be forced to close. This would have meant dogs who could have come here would have died. Make no mistake, it is that serious.”

Lorraine revealed that community support had been overwhelming, with donations large and small helping to keep the rescue operating. Among the contributors was Diamond Draws, which donated £10,000.

“Diamond Draws donated £10k which, along with all your other kind and generous donations means we live to fight another day!” the post continued.

Despite the immediate relief, Islay Dog Rescue said it still faces ongoing costs of around £850 per week in wages, alongside vet bills and other expenses. The rescues plans to introduce kennel sponsorships and gift packages to help secure sustainable funding for the future.

Speaking after the response, the rescue organisation told Ayrshire Daily News:

“In the 15 years I have run the rescue things have never been so difficult. Each day I receive several calls from people wishing to give their dogs up, running costs are through the roof and everybody is feeling the pinch - especially on the approach to Christmas. I am truly humbled by the response we have had and the generous and kind donations people have made. Monthly donations are what will keep us saving dogs' lives. A small standing order, of even £1 a month is fantastic - it all mounts up. Volunteers are integral to our rescue too and there are opportunities for people to get involved even if they aren't keen on dogs!”

She added that supporters can donate directly or set up a standing order to the group’s Virgin Money Business Account, or find more information about Kennel Sponsor Packages and Gift Packages on the rescue’s website at www.islaydogrescue.org.uk under the Support Us tab.

Islay Dog Rescue continues to rehome dogs and invites anyone interested in adopting to visit www.islaydogrescue.org.uk/adoption/meet-the-dogs.