Benvardin kennels remain open

That's the message from Louise Neill, manager of the animal sanctuary at the former Causeway Safari Park site.

The USPCA no longer run the pound but animal lover Louise, who has worked with animals for over 13 years, has taken over the dog re-homing facility under the new name of BARK (Benvardin Animal Rescue Kennels)

She will continue to run one of Ireland's most successful re-homing centres as a charity.

Speaking to The Times last week, Louise said: "There has been a lot of talk and negative publicity about us closing.

"The USPCA have finished re-homing animals from Benvardin but the Society have allowed me the use of two kennel blocks to continue to care for and re-home unwanted animals that end up in dog pounds.

"In the long term the USPCA want to develop the site into a horse rescue centre, but I want to continue to give dogs a second chance, and I am currently working with pounds across the country to save dogs from being destroyed.

"We have applied for charity status, this will allow us to carry out street collections as well as afford us tax relief, but in the meantime any donations will be greatly received, whether it be money, food, bedding or just help."

Louise went on to thank the local businesses who have supported her on her new venture.

"The staff at Jollyes, Pets at Home and Coleraine Pet Shop have been very supportive. Without their support, we would have found it impossible.

"Thanks also to Canine Creations in Ballymoney and JC Halliday in Bushmills, who have very kindly sponsored our van and its new livery."

There are a number of dogs for adoption at BARK but Louise tells that any unwanted dogs are finding a new home quickly.

"Thanks to our daily updates on our Facebook site and our website, we have achieved a re-homing rate in excess of 90%, and that is constantly increasing.

"All our dogs have had their first vaccinations, they have also been wormed and de-flead.

"Dogs also come with a neutering voucher and this allows the owner to have their dog neutered for only 15. New owners will also get a discount vouchers for Jollyes and Pets at Home and a free wash and blow dry from Canine Creations."

For more information contact BARK on 07518 370478, alternatively log on to www.benvardinkennels, email [email protected] or find them on Facebook.

BARK is open Monday to Friday from 2pm - 4pm and Saturday from 1.30pm – 4.30pm.