Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter: 130 years of second chances for the North East's pets

Some of the happiest stories in Newcastle begin at a farm in Benton. Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter has been helping dogs and cats across the North East since 1896, and in 2026 it marks 130 years of providing safety, care and a second chance to animals who need it.

From its home at Benton North Farm, the shelter cares for dogs and cats from across the region. Its mission is to improve their welfare through rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, along with community partnerships that promote education and responsible ownership. It reunites lost animals with their families and finds loving new homes for those who need them, guided by a simple vision: a North East where every dog and cat is safe, cared for and has a loving home.

The shelter's stories show what that means in practice. Alan arrived as a stray in January 2026, unsure of his new surroundings, and became such a favourite with staff that he spent much of his time cuddling and playing in the office. When applications to adopt him were slow, the team shared his story online, it was seen by hundreds of thousands of people, and he was soon rehomed with a family who describe him as "a lovely, gentle, bright boy".

Missy came in confused and severely underweight. The Animal Welfare Team planned a special diet to help her build up her strength, and she now enjoys beach adventures with her new family and a new sibling. Then there was Karen, a cat who was found sheltering in an industrial skip at the shelter with her kittens. Every member of the little family was nursed back to health and went on to find a forever home.

Care like this does not come cheap. It costs around £25 a day to look after a single animal at the shelter, before vet treatment, and the charity relies on the generosity of the public and local businesses. For World Animal Day on 4 October it joined the Donate a Dinner campaign, inviting supporters to drop off food for the animals in its care.

Volunteers are a crucial part of the team too, helping with everything from animal care and admin to gardening and the charity shops. There is plenty coming up for supporters, including a Christmas Market at the shelter on 4 and 5 December.

Adoption details, events and ways to donate are on the Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter website.