I am a proud owner of one very sweet, very pampered greyhound - he's currently called Dave but…read moreprior to that he used to race at Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium, under the moniker 'Magical Climate'. He was actually quite good - although this is a bit of a surprise to me and my Mom, as he now spends his retirement loafing about on the sofa, begging for tripe sticks and being tickled under the chin. We got Dave from Daybreaks Kennels which is home to the Perry Barr Retired Greyhound Trust and which is run by an amazing woman called Ruth Boswell. Dave was a bit of a state when we first laid eyes on him - without wanting to lay on the schmaltz too much years of racing had rendered him threadbare of tail, gammy of tooth and with what one could only describe as a 'lean and hungry look'. However, with Ruth's care - and lashings of tripe sticks, Dave made really good progress and although I'm obviously biased I think its fair to say he is a really handsome, jolly dog now. As for Daybreaks itself - the kennels are open daily and you can arrange a viewing by phoning ahead. If you're feeling particularly soppy you can also check out their website where you will be greeted by photos of dogs who need a home. This is a brilliant place run by a dedicated, extremely lovely team - they are always happy to offer advice on homing procedure, guidance on the right sort of dog for you and will happily talk to you after you've taken your dog home. As well as the kennels there's a shop that sells collars, leads, beds, food, toys and well...all sorts really.

The RSPCA on Barnes Hill shelter homes for many different types of pets for such a small rescue…read moreshelter. You can adopt and care for pets from dogs, cats to ferrets. It's really sad to see animals locked away in cages but the cages seem spacious enough for the animals as they each have their own cubicle with large spaces to move about if they ever need a stretch. The RSPCA supply a very informative booklet on what animals they are holding within their shelter and display at least a paragraph about these animals personally in order for you to have knowledge about their background, what breed they are and their age all for your reassurance. They have selected viewing times if ever you wish or think of adopting any of these animals so that you can bond with them.

My experience of RSPCA Burton is of the public dog-walking opportunity they give on a Saturday…read moremorning. You have to fill in a form (for insurance reasons I presume?) then they give you a dog and tell you a bit of information about it (like 'keep him away from other dogs' or 'he's recovering from an operation so bring him back in half an hour') then you take the dog off for a walk over the fields, down the canal, or wherever you like really (within reason). I think this is a really good idea because the dogs are always so excited to go for walks and it is a massive favour to the staff there. It is also good experience if you are thinking about getting a dog yourself. My friend did try to adopt a dog from there but didn't manage to pass the (very strict!!) criteria which was a shame :-(

we had our dog lucy (was katie) from here when she was 12 weeks old and she is now 15 years old!!…read morethe staff were brilliant especially yvonne who runs it!! the place is always tidy and well equipped and the cats and dogs always look happy and are well looked after! the dog walking scheme on a saturday is a very good idea as it takes the presure off the staff and the dogs are always estatic to be taken out!! a definate must go to if you are considering getting a dog or cat!! keep up the good work!!

Very caring staff, been to the dogs home quite a few times…read more Had a really lovely casket when we lost our pet for sweet memories of our beautiful border Collie.

It seems odd to be giving the Manchester Dogs home a star rating but I'll give them 5 just to…read morespread awareness and help stray dogs in Manchester get the walkies and loving new homes they need. If you love dogs, but can't keep one of your own or are looking for a new family dog then Manchester Dogs home definitely a place to consider. I'm in the first category, I live in a flat but love animals so recently joined the dogs home as a volunteer so I can walk the dogs when I'm free. Becoming a volunteer is easy, there is a section on their website called volunteers where you register. We were then invited to an informal day on-site where we were greeted by the friendly Julie who gave us an induction to becoming a volunteer and helping out at the home. Their approach is very relaxed and there is no obligation, you help out as much and as little as you can. There are a variety of things you can help with if dog walking isn't your thing either as they often need extra non-walking help at the home. Once you are registered you just sign in and then proceed to the kennels where the trained staff will hand you a dog on a lead. You can specify the size of dog as well, so if you're new to this, like we were, you can pick a small dog to begin or whatever dogs you're comfortable with. Walking the dogs is great, we had a little Jack Russell called Babs who was really happy to see us. Behind the dogs home is an open area full of grass, trails and paths to walk the dogs in. Little Babs obviously led the way... little tail wagging. The staff have always been really friendly and helpful with us, so if get involved today and visit the volunteer section on their website.