A Woodgreen team member sitting with a tabby and white cat.

Caring for pets around the clock

We're here for pets 24/7. That means when most people have finished work for the day, our team are getting ready to take on the night shift and make sure that the pets in our care have everything they need.

We don’t always know when a pet is going to arrive at our doors, especially when it comes to abandoned pets like Nellie, who was left at our gates on a cold autumn night. But, night or day, our teams are there for pets whenever they need us.

At a time when we’re seeing a surge in the number of strays coming into Woodgreen, having a team that’s available 24/7 has never been more vital.

As well as being responsible for all things security, our Protection and Welfare Services team take over pet care on the night shift. From regular checks and feeds to toilet walks and medication, the team are there to make sure every pet has everything they need. Don’t worry, in case of any late-night emergencies, our Vet team are just a call away.

Security team member, Glen, is no stranger to helping stray pets. And there’s one in particular who he’ll never forget… Lavender the Lurcher, who he found tied to a tree on a nighttime patrol.

“Lavender was agitated, so we really took our time with her. I placed her in a kennel and stayed as she settled. I remember realising what a difference we make for pets in that position. It may have been my imagination, but she seemed stunned to find herself somewhere warm and comfortable. We’re often the first people that strays encounter when they’re scared, cold and hungry. It’s nice to think their road to recovery begins with us.”

In 2024, the night shift team were on hand to support 149 pets who were found, handed in or abandoned overnight. Of the pets that arrived after hours, 22 were Terriers, 14 were cats and 34 were Lurchers, just like Lavender.

Our teams couldn’t do this important work without the help of our wonderful supporters like you. Thank you for being there for Woodgreen and the pets who depend on us.