ATU to welcome Canines on Campus for Animals in Need fundraiser

ATU Donegal will host a fundraiser for Animals in Need Donegal - and you’re more than welcome to take your pets to college.

The inaugural ATU Canines on Campus, a dog walk and a fundraiser is on Monday, August 26,  between 2pm-4pm at the Letterkenny campus. 

The event coincides with National Dog Day and is the first initiative of its kind in Ireland. 

In Ireland, animal shelters face increasing demand for their services. The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) reported that 1,474 animals were seized or surrendered and taken into their care in 2023. Dogs Trust Ireland has already received 412 surrender requests this year, following 3,968 requests in 2023.

Participating in this campaign will make more people aware of where to look for help”, says Gita McMullan, Manager at Animals in Need Donegal. 

 “The situation in Donegal, in Ireland in fact, is desperate and very sad,” he said. “There are too many dogs, and cats being bred and not enough homes available, leaving rescues and pounds full to bursting and struggling to cope with the sheer numbers. Making more people aware of us and where to look for help will be a great help. We get many calls on a daily basis, and one common issue is that people didn't know where to go for help before the situation with animals got out of hand. Getting young people involved and highlighting safe and responsible ownership are key to changing people's attitudes toward animals”, she added. 

Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, expressed her enthusiasm about the initiative, stating: " ATU Canines on Campus is a fundraiser and dog walk to be held on our Galway City, Sligo and Donegal Letterkenny campuses, in support of four outstanding animal rescues making a positive impact in our region. By coming together for this event, we can support these organisations in their mission to improve animal welfare in the west and northwest of Ireland. I invite everyone to join us in celebrating our furry friends and contributing to a cause that truly makes a difference." 

This event is also taking place in the ATU campuses in Galway and Sligo and partnering with other chosen charities in those counties.

Animals in Need Donegal are accepting donations and they have a wishlist which consists of wet cat food, wet kitten food, wet puppy food, wet dog food, cat toys, study dog toy, puppy pads and used towels.