Brent Knoll’s RSPCA Animal Centre has this week announced a major merger with Bath Cats and Dogs Home in a move aimed at safeguarding the future of vital animal welfare services across the Burnham-On-Sea area.
The centre, which has supported vulnerable animals for more than two decades, says it has faced mounting financial pressures in recent years and merger comes after trustees sought help to ensure the long‑running facility could continue its work with rescued pets and families facing hardship.
A spokesperson adds: “Like many small charities, Brent Knoll has faced serious financial pressures in recent years. When its trustees asked for help, we stepped forward because we believe the centre is too important to the community, and to animals in need, to be lost.”
“This merger gives us a stronger platform to protect and develop animal welfare services across the region. It means Brent Knoll can continue rehabilitating and rehoming animals, while also allowing us to plan for the future with greater resilience and ambition.”
“We know, however, that the challenge is far from over. The centre needs significant annual funding to remain open, and demand for animal welfare support is rising. We will be asking local people, businesses and partners to stand with us as we work to secure Brent Knoll’s long-term future.”
The charity adds that Brent Knoll’s location near the M5 makes it a “crucial part of the RSPCA network, particularly at a time when cruelty, abandonment and neglect continue to place pressure on rescue services. We want to build on the centre’s role and, over time, increase its capacity so more animals can receive the specialist care they need.”
“We are also committed to doing more to support pet owners before problems become crises. Through targeted outreach, advice and practical support, we want to help loving families keep their pets wherever possible, even when they are facing difficult financial circumstances.”
They add: “Our immediate priority is to stabilise Brent Knoll Animal Centre and protect the dedicated team whose compassion and expertise have made such a difference for animals over the past two decades. From there, we want to expand our impact across North Somerset and the wider Southwest.”
“We are grateful to everyone who has supported Brent Knoll so far and to those who will help shape its next chapter.”
