Not just about cats and dogs, says GSPCA at Animal Antics

In aid of charity, a wide variety of animals, including Juno the rabbit and Homer the cockatiel, met the children as part of the event, which featured games and goods on sale, to raise funds for the animal shelter and the work it does.

This year’s theme was based on the Secret Life of Pets 2 film and tombola prizes included the film franchise’s soft toys.

During the day’s fun, there was also a screening of the film for all to enjoy.

Ruby Day, 4, came dressed as a rabbit and said it was her favourite animal.

‘I like Peter and Lily rabbit,’ she said.

‘I like animals.’

Some of those who came to the event even brought along their own pets to show support for the charity.

This included Gail Girard, who has previously adopted from the GSPCA.

‘The staff at the GSPCA are amazing, they do such great work,’ she said.

‘I’ve brought two of the rescue dogs I got from them – Bundi, who I’ve had since she was five months and is now 13 years old, and five-year-old Rumie.

‘The reason for me was that I wanted to give something back, it’s the first time I’ve been involved and it’s good to see the kids enjoy the company of animals.’

All animals brought to the event were in need of a home so, as well as a fundraiser, it was also a chance for people to meet those animals looking for a permanent place to call home.

Brother and sister Connor Bonham, 10, and Lucy Bonham, 9, said although they were not looking to adopt today they had in the past.

‘We’ve got a dog and lots of fish at home,’ said Lucy.

‘I like the rabbits, Juno and Ozzy, they’re cute.’

‘The bearded dragon, Mr Thatch, is cool though,’ added Connor.

‘Sneezy [the dwarf hamster] looked quite nervous placed next to him.’

Delighted with the turnout, GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said he was glad to see so many people come along to support them.

‘This is the third time we’ve put this on with Beau Sejour,’ he said.

‘We like to do something during half-term so children and their parents can come and see us. It’s a great way to show what we do and what we’re about, so we’ve brought lots of different animals because it’s not just about cats and dogs.

‘We’ve got around 14 rabbits and 20 reptiles in need of a home, so today is about a number of things, finding the animals we have a home, fundraising for the many pets and animals in our care, as well as for the wildlife hospital build, and providing information about what we do.

‘Plus to have fun – the Secret Life of Pets film tops it off and fits really well.’