Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
As the holiday seasons approach with their warmth and joy, an animal rescue centre located in Pizarra is fighting to survive amid unprecedented challenges. Last Chance Animal Rescue Spain was founded by British expat Jacqui Ros in 2012. It currently provides care for more than 100 dogs and cat, some of which are abandoned, abused or neglected.
The charity relies solely on donations from the public and receives no government funding. They have reached a crisis point, where they will be forced to close their doors if help is not provided urgently. Alexandra Ross is the one who does most of the work these days, so any extra volunteers will be very much appreciated.
The year was a terrible one and we were in a dire situation
This year’s been especially brutal. The cost-of living crisis in the world has caused donations to plummet, and pet surrenders have increased as families struggle with finances. Adoptions plummeted leaving kennels full, and preventing new rescues from being accepted.
After Brexit, the cost of transport has skyrocketed, making overseas adoptions prohibitive.
Then, in October 2024, the DANA storm caused catastrophic flooding throughout southern Spain. The shelter in Pizarra was severely damaged. Deep mud covered the area, forcing animals inside for weeks.
DANA rallied community
The cleanup was a drain on already limited resources. Volunteers and staff rented heavy machinery to remove the debris at great cost. The incident was thankfully not fatal, but it did highlight the fragile situation of the animals.
Jacqui, who dedicates herself to the rescue mission full-time and with all her heart, made a powerful plea: “We’re in panic mode.” We have never felt so worried about the future. So many rescues have closed—what would happen to our dogs and cats if we have to give up?”
With running costs exceeding €2,500 monthly for the main shelter alone, which covers food, veterinary bills, and essentials, the team can’t accept new animals until space opens through adoptions.
There is hope in the community. The rescue appeals for regular small donations, suggesting just €1 or £1 per month, less than the price of a coffee, that could collectively cover essentials if enough people join.
Give a meaningful gift
Don’t buy Santa socks this Christmas. Instead, give a gift that will make a difference. You can donate via their website: lastchanceanimalrescuespain.org. Through ongoing fundraisers such as GoFundMeYou can also contact them directly via WhatsApp (WhatsApp +34 633 320.313).
Even a tiny act of kindness can give these animals a chance to live a long and happy life.
