Winter is the toughest, costliest time of year for lots of charities

RSPCA Chesterfield are hoping to raise £10,000 to cover vet bills, food, and warmth for animals in need this winter.

Costs are rising for everyone, charities included.

Every animal which comes through the RSPCA’s doors has a story and ahead of the tough winter months, the charity is sharing some of them, including that of Pumpkin, a tiny kitten who arrived at the Chesterfield branch with a ruptured eye.

Pumpkin when she arrived at the RSPCA | RSPCA

placeholder image — Pumpkin when she arrived at the RSPCA | RSPCA

Pumpkin, believed to be around 15 weeks old, was brought after her owner noticed something was seriously wrong with her eye.

The centre helped him get her seen by a vet, but when the true cost of the emergency treatment she needed became clear, he made the difficult decision to sign her into the centre's care so she could get the help he couldn't afford alone.

Despite a ruptured left eye so severe it could no longer close, Pumpkin was still bright, curious and behaving just like any other kitten her age.

Vets started her on pain relief within 24 hours and carried out surgery the next day to remove the damaged eye.

Gary Taylor, Animal Care Manager at RSPCA Chesterfield, said: “When Pumpkin arrived with us, it was clear she needed care beyond what her owner could provide, and that’s exactly why they contacted the RSPCA for help and chose to sign her over to us for urgent vet treatment.

“Owning an animal is a big commitment that comes with significant responsibilities. Sadly, though, people can unexpectedly find themselves in difficult situations with their pets, particularly when personal circumstances suddenly change. We would always encourage owners to plan ahead for potential veterinary costs and to reach out as soon as possible for help and advice if they’re struggling.”

Pumpkin's previous owner, who asked for support rather than struggle alone, said: "Care was all he ever wanted for her. I know I did the right thing because she’s doing so well.”

Pumpkin's eye has now healed perfectly, and she's already found a loving home of her own.

For anyone worried they may not be able to continue caring for a pet, RSPCA Chesterfield urges owners not to wait until it becomes an emergency. The centre offers advice and support for people struggling to care for their pets, and encourages anyone in a difficult situation to get in touch before things reach crisis point.

RSPCA Chesterfield is sharing Pumpkin's story as part of its Safe This Winter appeal, which aims to raise £10,000 between October 1 and January to help the centre cover the additional costs associated with the winter months, and to support members of the community facing impossible decisions about pets they can no longer care for alone.

To help the RSPCA Chesterfield care for animals like Pumpkin, as well as all of the other animals in its care, please visit here to donate.