Phase 2: Transforming our dog kennels
Dogs arriving at York Animal Home today are often very different from those our kennels were originally designed to accommodate nearly 50 years ago.
We are increasingly caring for larger breeds and dogs with complex behavioural and rehabilitation needs. Many have experienced neglect, abandonment or difficult circumstances that require patience, specialist support and carefully designed environments to help them recover.
Our current kennels are no longer able to meet these needs effectively. Phase Two will see the complete redevelopment of our dog accommodation, creating modern facilities that place animal welfare at the heart of every design decision.
The new kennels will provide larger, climate-controlled living spaces, improved sound insulation and dedicated areas for behavioural assessment and training. Outdoor exercise and enrichment areas will give dogs more opportunities to play, learn and build confidence, while improved layouts will help reduce stress and support rehabilitation.
The redevelopment will also allow our team to provide more consistent behaviour and training work throughout the year, helping dogs overcome challenges and increasing their chances of finding permanent homes.
Phase Two will deliver:
- Modern, purpose-built dog kennels
- Larger accommodation suited to today's rescue dogs
- Improved sound insulation and stress reduction measures
- Dedicated behavioural assessment and training facilities
- Secure outdoor exercise and enrichment areas
- Enhanced infection control and welfare standards
Every dog deserves the opportunity to recover, rebuild trust and find a loving family. Phase Two will provide the environment needed to make more of those happy endings possible.
From neglect to new beginnings: The Whitby dogs
On 22 April 2026, an RSPCA Inspector rescued 14 dogs from a small holding near Whitby following the death of their owner. The dogs had been found locked in kennels and living in squalid conditions, deprived of the care and attention they desperately needed.
Twelve of the dogs - a mix of collies, Shelties, a Labrador and a lurcher - were brought to RSPCA York Animal Home. All were emaciated, weak and in poor condition. Four were so unwell that they required overnight hospitalisation and intravenous fluids, while others needed immediate pain relief.
Despite everything they had endured, the dogs showed a remarkable capacity for trust. Although nervous and unfamiliar with the outside world, they quickly revealed gentle, affectionate personalities that touched everyone who cared for them.
Over the following weeks, the dedicated team at York Animal Home worked tirelessly to help the dogs recover. Through specialist care, nutritious food, rehabilitation and patience, they gradually regained their strength and confidence.
Just two months later, many of the dogs have already found loving new homes where they can enjoy the comfort, security and companionship they had been denied for so long. The remaining dogs continue their journey towards recovery, and the team hopes it will not be long before they too begin the next chapter of their lives.
Their story is a testament to the vital role RSPCA York Animal Home plays in giving vulnerable animals a second chance. With the right care, even those who have experienced neglect can go on to live happy, fulfilling lives.
