One of Aberdeen’s oldest charities is asking the North East community to help transform the lives of rescue dogs through a major new redevelopment project.
Mrs Murray’s Home for Stray Dogs and Cats has officially launched ‘The Big Build’ a fundraising campaign to replace ageing kennels with modern facilities designed to meet the complex needs of rescue dogs arriving at the home every day. The redevelopment is scheduled to begin in June, with the charity having launched a £500,000 fundraising appeal to support the vital redevelopment.
Founded in 1889, Mrs Murray’s has cared for generations of abandoned, stray and unwanted animals across Aberdeen and the surrounding area. Last year alone, the charity cared for more than 1,900 dogs and cats.
But while the charity’s work has evolved over the decades, many of its kennel facilities have not.
The new development will create 21 purpose-built kennel units, each with indoor sleeping areas and secure outdoor runs, helping reduce stress and anxiety for dogs who may already be frightened or traumatised when they arrive.
The project will also include improved hygiene facilities, dedicated maternity space, and better environments for potential adopters to meet animals.
Chairman Alan Grant said the redevelopment would have a lasting impact on animal welfare at the Home. “Some of the dogs who come to us are extremely anxious and overwhelmed. These new facilities will make a huge difference to their wellbeing and recovery while they wait for a new home. We’re absolutely delighted with the response so far, with almost £100,000 already being donated, but we still have a long way to go, and we’re aware times are tough for people at the moment.
“Mrs Murray’s has always been an important part of the North East community, and we hope local animal lovers will continue to support us as we invest in the future of the home.”
The charity says the new kennels are particularly important for dogs with behavioural or medical challenges, including long-term resident Max.
Max arrived at the home more than a decade ago as a young dog struggling to adapt to life in a domestic environment. Despite several attempts to rehome him, staff eventually made the difficult decision that he would remain permanently in their care.
Now older and living with a painful spinal condition, Max continues to receive specialist support from the team who know him best. Staff say his story reflects the reality that rescue work is not always straightforward. For that reason, Max was chosen as the face of the campaign, with his image now shared across posters, flyers and t-shirts available to support the charity’s work
Marie Simpson, manager at Mrs Murray’s said: “Many of the animals who come through our doors have not had an easy start in life. Sometimes rescue them is about finding a new home. Sometimes it’s simply about giving an animal safety, stability, and kindness for the rest of their life. Our team work tirelessly to look after every animal that comes our way, as well as supporting with fundraising and helping to raise awareness of what we do.”
Mrs Murray’s receives no government or lottery funding and relies heavily on public donations, fundraising, and legacies to continue its work.
Alongside rescue and rehoming services, the charity also provides boarding services and supports local pet owners through its pet foodbank initiative.
The home has recently received national recognition, including being named ‘Pet Charity of the Year’, and Marie Simpson winning ‘Pet Hero of the Year’ at the National Pet Awards Scotland.
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The charity is now encouraging local people, businesses, and community groups to support ‘The Big Build’ campaign and help secure the future of animal rescue services in the North East for generations to come.
More information about ‘The Big Build’ and ways to donate can be found at www.mrsmurrays.co.uk
