Future in Action

Future in Action

Working Like a Dog for Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary

As one of 2024’s final Lend a Hand activities, Dan Mann from Cemex’s Public Affairs team, dedicated a day to volunteering at Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary.

Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, located in the heart of Lancashire, is a haven for animals in need, providing care and shelter for hundreds of dogs, cats, rabbits, and farm animals. As one of the largest animal sanctuaries in the North West, its mission relies heavily on the support of volunteers who contribute their time and energy to ensure the sanctuary’s operations run smoothly.

The volunteering day was packed with meaningful activities. Dan was given the wet, cold and unenviable task of removing, power washing, and cleaning the Perspex panels of the dog kennels to tidy them up, with no growling about it. This crucial maintenance helps to ensure that the kennels remain clean, hygienic, and welcoming for their furry occupants. After the cleaning process, the panels were carefully re-bolted, and the area was tidied, leaving the space in pristine condition, and making sure that they weren’t ruff.

In addition to maintenance work, Dan also had time to take a paws and walk some of the dogs. This not only provided the animals with much-needed exercise but also offered them companionship, helping to reduce stress and improve their overall well-being. For many of the sanctuary’s dogs, interactions with volunteers like this are essential in preparing them for adoption into loving homes.

Reflecting on the day, the analyst shared: “No bones about it, volunteering at Bleakholt was an incredibly rewarding experience. It was wonderful to contribute to such a vital cause and see firsthand the dedication of the staff and volunteers who care for these animals. Spending time with the dogs and helping improve their living conditions was a highlight of the day, and Max (pictured) is clearly happy with my work.”

Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary welcomes volunteers year-round and is always in need of support, if you would like to get involved, or if you would like to adopt an animal (including Max!), please message Dan, at Daniel.mann@cemex.com for more information.