Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter up for prestigious Pet Industry Award

Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter, based on Northolt Drive in Great Lever, has been shortlisted in the Best Animal Rescue/Charity category at the Pet Industry Business Awards 2026.

The awards celebrate businesses and charities across the animal sector, with winners determined through nominations and recommendations from customers, supporters and members of the public.

The shelter, which operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, said it was “extremely heartwarming and humbling” to be nominated by its supporters.

In response to the nomination, management praised the dedication of staff, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges of caring for vulnerable animals.

A spokesperson for the shelter said: “To be recognised by our supporters is unexpected and a fabulous boost to morale during a difficult time at the shelter.

“Long days, early starts and animals that rely on us to survive can be taxing both physically and mentally for our team, but they take every day in their stride.

“To be nominated in the Best Animal Rescue/Charity category is all thanks to their tireless work and commitment to the animals who need us most.”

The nomination comes at a particularly challenging time for the shelter, which recently had to temporarily close and launch an emergency fundraising appeal following a ringworm outbreak that affected both animals in its care and several staff members.

Despite the difficulties, the recognition has provided a welcome morale boost for the team as they continue working to recover and support vulnerable animals in need.

The shelter said the nomination was particularly meaningful because it came from supporters rather than through a direct award entry.

“It is touching to know that we have been nominated not because we entered, not because we campaigned for it, but because our supporters chose us,

“They took time out of their day to say ‘this rescue matters’.”

Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter is now encouraging supporters, volunteers, fosterers and members of the public to submit nominations and share their support online.

Supporters wishing to nominate the shelter can do so through the PIBA website by selecting the Best Animal Rescue/Charity category and entering the charity’s details.

The charity said the recognition highlights not only how far it has come, but also the difference it continues to make for animals and pet owners across the community.

For the team at Destitute Animal Shelter, the nomination itself is already a significant achievement.

“We are so thankful to have such a wonderful bank of supporters, volunteers, sponsors and fosterers,

“To be recognised for how far we have come, the difference we have made, and the lives we have yet to impact is a real boost to the Destitute Animal Shelter.”