Mince Pies, Mistletoe & Making a Difference
As the year draws to a close and Christmas lights twinkle across Gloucestershire, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what’s been an incredibly busy – and heartwarming – year at Teckels.
The festive season is in full swing here at the sanctuary, with cosy cats curled up in the cattery and our dogs enjoying crisp winter walks (followed by well-earned snoozes, of course).
Whether you’ve been with us all year or are just joining the Teckels family, we wanted to share our latest news and say a huge thank you for everything you do.
🎄 Dates for the Diary
Christmas & New Year Opening Hours
Please note that reception will be closed on:
- 24th – 26th December
- 31st December – 2nd January
🐾 Adoption Update
November saw more happy endings, with 3 dogs and 13 cats (many of them kittens!) finding their forever homes.
One of those lucky pups was Polly, who we’re so thrilled has found her perfect match!
🚨 Stray Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation
The demand on our stray services continues to grow, and sadly November was no exception:
- 23 stray dogs were transferred to partner rescues
- 6 were happily reunited with their owners
It’s been a busy time, but every dog that passes through our doors receives the care and compassion they deserve – thanks to you.
🎁 Shoebox Appeal – Still Time to Give!
Our Christmas Shoebox Appeal is still running until Christmas!
There’s still time to drop off a box filled with treats, toys and goodies for the animals spending the festive season with us. Every gift helps bring joy to our residents — not just on Christmas Day, but for months to come.
You can drop your shoebox at Teckels Animal Sanctuaries, our charity shop, or any of the supermarkets where you see our food collection points.
We’d love items like:
- Tinned hot dogs (great for tempting shy dogs or hiding medication)
- Tinned tuna or sardines for our feline friends
- Soft training treats
- Cat toys – especially interactive ones
- Catnip
- Long-lasting chews for dogs (like Nylabones, pigs’ ears, or Jumbones)
- Hardwearing toys for our bouncy breeds
- Poo bags
- Food puzzles
- Collars
- Vouchers for pet shops (so our animals can choose their own treats!)
- Rescue Remedy sprays or plug-ins
- Tins of tasty food
Please note, we’re unable to accept rawhide treats.
Even the smallest gesture helps – a chewy treat, a cosy blanket, or a jingling toy can mean the world to an animal waiting for their forever home.
💖 Thank You — From All of Us
As 2025 comes to a close, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to every single person who has supported Teckels this year.
To our volunteers — for the early mornings, the muddy walks, and the endless love you give our animals.
To our fosterers — for opening your homes and helping our most vulnerable residents find their confidence.
To our donors — for making it possible for us to say “yes” when animals need us most.
To our corporate partners — for standing alongside us and championing animal welfare.
To our boarding clients — for trusting us with your beloved pets and helping fund our rescue work.
To our charity shop customers — for browsing the rails in Stroud and helping fund our work with every purchase.
To everyone who attended our fairs and events — for joining us, entering the raffles, and making each occasion such a joyful celebration.
And to everyone who has shared a post, dropped off donations, or simply believed in what we do — you are the reason Teckels exists.
From every wag, purr, and grateful heart here at the sanctuary — thank you for making 2025 a year of hope, healing, and happy endings.
Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful, joyful Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
With love and gratitude,
The Teckels Team
💚 Tux Finds Her Brave
Some animals need a little extra time and patience – and Tux is proof of just how worthwhile that journey can be.
Tux arrived at Teckels alongside her companion Rune.
The pair had been squabbling at home, and both were incredibly nervous and shut down when they came into our care.
While Rune gradually settled into cattery life, Tux struggled, so we moved her into a foster home to help build her confidence.
After three weeks in foster, something magical started to happen. Tux began to come out of her shell, making friends and showing glimpses of the affectionate cat she could be — though she remained understandably wary.
Then along came a really lovely, understanding family who had experience with nervous cats. They offered to foster Tux first, giving her the time and space she needed to adjust at her own pace.
We’re so proud of how far this brave girl has come.
(Rune has also found her own happy ending and was rehomed separately!)
🐕 Lenny’s New Beginning
Lenny arrived at Teckels as a stray — timid, uncertain, and taking his time to find his feet. But with patience and gentle encouragement, Lenny was ready to find a home of his own.
His new family recently shared this update:
“Lenny is settling in really well. For the first few days, he spent most of his time in the bedroom, only coming out occasionally. We visited him for short periods and then gave him space so he could decompress and choose when he wanted to be around people. He clearly enjoys our company and seeks attention, but he’s made the bedroom his safe space.
There wasn’t much play at first, but he’s gradually coming out of his shell. For the past two days he’s been out in the garden, where he and [his new doggy pal] have enjoyed playing together. He’s still a bit nervous about the TV, but we’re working on gentle desensitisation and keeping things calm.”
Lenny’s story is a beautiful reminder that some dogs just need time, understanding, and a family willing to let them bloom at their own pace.
Demand for Relinquishing Animals
Just like October, we’ve seen an increasing number of people seeking to relinquish animals in need.
In November, we received over 100 calls and emails from individuals looking to rehome dogs and 90 for cats.
Teckels’ commitment to helping animals in need and finding them loving homes remains unwavering.
Help us Continue Our Mission.
Thank you to everyone who donates to Teckels. Your generosity is making a profound difference.
Your support is the driving force behind our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and find loving homes for animals in need. Every contribution plays a vital role.
We invite you to become a donor today and continue making a difference.
Your support enables us to provide care, shelter, and hope to countless animals seeking a second chance at a better life. Together, we can create positive change and ensure a brighter future for these animals.
Join us in making a lasting impact today.
