New project keeps pets in loving care

Families in Blackpool will soon be opening their homes to four-legged friends, as part of a new project to help local people in need.
Marcus Beasley (left) and Martin Chamberlain with Betty, Oz, Bertie and Freddie
Pet fostering service in BlackpoolMarcus Beasley (left) and Martin Chamberlain with Betty, Oz, Bertie and Freddie
Pet fostering service in Blackpool
Marcus Beasley (left) and Martin Chamberlain with Betty, Oz, Bertie and Freddie Pet fostering service in Blackpool

The Furry Friends Pet Fostering Service is a new scheme that provides short-term foster owners for the beloved cats, dogs and companion animals of people who are in crisis.

Delivered by Blackpool Fulfilling Lives, the service will make sure that the pets have a loving temporary home while their owners are receiving treatment for issues like mental health problems or substance misuse.

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“We know that people develop very strong bonds with their pets, and leaving them behind can be a serious barrier to accessing the support they need,” said project co-ordinator Amanda Bennett.

“This project will mean they can be confident they are leaving their pet in the best possible care – a home from home – while they use support available to help them through their challenges.”

Marcus Beasley has volunteered to become a foster owner for the scheme.

He said: “If we can look after someone else’s best friend whilst they get their lives back on track and reassure them they are being well cared for and will be back with them soon, then that is a massively rewarding thing for us to do.”

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Cleveleys Vets4Pets have very kindly offered their help on the project; they will provide full veterinary support to foster parents and their four-legged guests.

Martin Chamberlain, partner and vet at Cleveleys Vets4Pets said: “The chance to be involved in this community project is an opportunity we couldn’t miss.”

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