Cheltenham Animal Shelter

About Cheltenham Animal Shelter

Cheltenham Animal Shelter, part of the Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Association (GAWA), has been a beacon of hope for animals since 1926. Based in Gloucestershire, the shelter rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes stray, abandoned, and surrendered cats, dogs, and small animals from across the region.

Each year, Cheltenham Animal Shelter cares for many dozens of animals, providing them with veterinary treatment, behavioural support, and shelter until they find loving forever homes. The charity operates an on-site veterinary service (CASVet) and offers services such as grooming, boarding, and training — all helping to support its core rescue work.

Education and community outreach are central to GAWA’s mission. They engage schools and local groups through workshops on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. The shelter also welcomes tours and provides opportunities for volunteering, allowing the public to see the compassionate work that happens behind the scenes.

Running costs are covered not by government funding but through public donations, fundraising efforts, and the support of volunteer and corporate partners. Cheltenham Animal Shelter relies on the generosity of its community to continue offering a safe haven and a fresh start for vulnerable animals.