A Co Down woman has turned her passion for animals into a safe haven for small pets who are in need of a new home.
Clare Trimble from Kilkeel runs Clare’s Creature Comforts, a social enterprise based in Lisburn which uses the money it makes from its grooming and pet-sitting services to rescue, and rehome small pets.
Growing up in the countryside, the 29-year-old was fascinated by all the animals around her and was determined to help make a difference to those in need when she got older.
Read more: Litter of chihuahua pups and their mum found dumped beside a bin
Speaking to Belfast Live, Clare said: "I grew up in the countryside and always had dogs, birds and other farm animals even pet peacocks.
"As I got older, I began to realise that many animals needed our help and protection.
"I knew that I wanted to make a difference in the lives of animals. Now, as an adult, I continue to be passionate about animal welfare and strive to do everything I can to help animals in need."
While she was on maternity leave, Clare wanted to take up a hobby and decided she wanted to rescue rabbits to take care of and nourish.
"One of the first rabbits I got came to me already pregnant which I wasn’t made aware of and passed away during her labour.
"I was left distraught and devastated by this, I then researched a lot more into rabbits and all their different breeds and how to safely pair them for breeding and I decided that I would try to have a go at breeding rabbits myself," she explained.
After realising how full rescue centres were becoming with unwanted small pets and the limited number of rescue centres which take in small pets, she realised she had to do something to help.
Clare continued: "With my experience and my amazing small animal set-up that I have at home, I started to reach out my hand to help. I have received some amazing help and support from amazing like-minded people and truly believe that we can make a difference.
From here, Clare's Creature Comforts was born in 2022 where she works tirelessly around the clock to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home as many small animals as possible.
She said: "I make sure every small pet receives the care and attention they need to thrive. I also work hard to educate people about the proper care of these animals so that they can live happy healthy lives.
"My goal is to find loving homes for everyone that comes through our doors and to ensure that they are treated with the love and respect they deserve."
Clare explained that on record, she sees an increased number of unwanted pets in the short months after Easter, Christmas and children’s birthdays - and while rabbits, Guinea pigs, hamsters and rats may seem to be a cute and cuddly gift, they are actually a big responsibility.
"I believe that rabbits and guinea pigs are both amazing animals that make wonderful companions," she added.
"They are social creatures that thrive on attention and love, and they can bring so much joy and happiness to our lives.
"Unfortunately, many of these animals are mistreated or abandoned or sometimes these pet owners simply don't have the time or means to care for them anymore and they need our help to survive.
"By rescuing rehabilitating and rehoming small animals, we can give them the love and care they need to bloom. Not only is it rewarding to watch them grow and develop and find their forever homes but the hard work dedication time and effort make it all worth it."
Her advice for anyone considering taking a small pet in their home is to ensure they do their research beforehand and be ready to commit to the joy they bring into your life.
"Think about the animal's needs for food, water, exercise, socialization and grooming as well as any medical care they may require. It's also important to choose a pet that fits your lifestyle and living situation."
Clare's Creature Comforts has currently put out an urgent appeal to help rehome the small pets in her care as she is currently at full capacity.
She said: "They are in desperate need of a safe place to call their forever home. If you can provide a loving home for one of these animals, please consider adopting. Not only will you be providing a home for an animal in need, but you will also be gaining a wonderful companion."
For more information about Clare's Creature Comforts, see here
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
