Here’s how you can support Manchester’s pug rescue and keep the pugs snuggling

A small but mighty rescue mission is bringing joy, healing, and second chances, not just for pugs, but for the people who love them.

Manchester Pug Thing is a charity, and a lifeline. Led by founder Jakki Rose and powered by a passionate community of volunteers, the rescue has saved over 350 pugs since 2018, offering them the care and comfort all dogs deserve.

But the impact goes beyond the wagging tails and wet-nosed kisses. For many, these snorting, squishy-faced companions have been a source of strength in life’s darkest moments.

Manchester Pug Thing

For Jakki, her pug Grace was that very lifeline. “Grace saved my life,” she shared, her voice full of emotion. Facing mental health struggles, Jakki found  love and purpose in her little companion.

That bond became the spark for Manchester Pug Thing: a rescue built not only to save pugs but to uplift the people who cherish them.

Yet now, the charity faces its own battle. Skyrocketing vet bills and mounting insurance costs threaten to close its doors.

Without crucial support from the community, the future of countless pugs hangs in the balance. But just like the resilient dogs they care for, Manchester Pug Thing isn’t giving up.

From heartwarming adoption stories to innovative fundraisers, every effort is a testament to the power of love, friendship, and a shared mission.

And as Jakki and her dedicated team fight to keep tails wagging, they invite you to join the journey: because when you help a pug, you’re changing lives in more ways than one.

Pugs and Mental Health

Beyond the wagging tails and playful antics, pugs offer emotional support. Jakki is far from alone in her experience. Tracy, one of the charity’s dedicated volunteers, found comfort in her pug Willow after the devastating loss of her husband.

“Willow was a gift from my husband, and she’s been my constant source of strength ever since,” Tracy recalled.

Research consistently shows the positive effects pets have on mental health. The affectionate and empathetic nature of pugs makes them particularly attuned to their owners’ emotions. “Pugs just know,” Jakki explained.

“They sense your moods and stay by your side when you need them most.”

The fight to stay afloat

Despite the joy pugs bring, Manchester Pug Thing is facing mounting challenges. “Vet bills are our biggest hurdle,” Jakki said.

“Recent bills have topped £2,500 per dog. Without consistent fundraising, we risk shutting our doors.”

The surge in veterinary costs and insurance premiums has placed additional strain on the charity. Jakki’s own dog’s insurance premium soared from £1,000 to £2,500 in a year. Many owners, unable to afford necessary care, turn to the rescue for help. “It’s heartbreaking,” Jakki said.

“We’re doing everything we can, but we need the community’s support.”

The Beautiful Mancs take the stage

To keep the rescue afloat, Manchester Pug Thing is getting creative. On May 9th, they’re hosting a special fundraising concert featuring The Beautiful Mancs, a tribute act celebrating the music of Paul Heaton.

The event, held at the Strawberry Duck in Clayton, will feature Jakki’s friend Ben, whose uncanny vocal resemblance to Heaton has earned him viral fame.

“It all started when Rachel and I went to see Paul Heaton perform,” Jakki recalled. “Rachel’s friend Ben had VIP tickets and invited us to join him. I didn’t know what to expect, but then Ben started singing, and it was like Paul Heaton himself was in the room.”

The resemblance was uncanny. With a soulful voice and effortless charm, Ben captivated everyone around him. “My jaw hit the floor,” Jakki said, still in awe. “We filmed him singing Sail This Ship Alone and uploaded it to TikTok. It went viral with 144,000 views!”

Inspired by the reaction, Jakki asked Ben if he’d consider performing to raise money for the charity. Without hesitation, he agreed. So, The Beautiful Mancs was born. Since then, the tribute band has been building excitement, with fans traveling from as far as Glasgow and Newcastle to witness the heartfelt performances.

Their first major fundraising event will take place on May 9th at the Strawberry Duck in Clayton. “Every penny raised will go directly to our pugs’ medical care and wellbeing,” Jakki said. “We’re hoping it’ll be a night to remember: for the music, the laughter, and the lives we’ll change.”

You can get tickets to this event by clicking here

How you can help

For those unable to attend the concert, there are countless ways to support Manchester Pug Thing. “We’re always in need of foster homes, volunteers for transport, and people to help with adoption applications,” Jakki said. Donations, sponsorships, and raffle prize contributions are also welcome.

“A bigger fundraising event at a venue like a theatre would be a dream, we’d love to put on a show for everyone,” Jakki said. “We just need people to believe in us and these dogs.”

You can donate to Manchester Pug Thing by clicking here

What to know before you adopt a pug

While pugs are undeniably charming, Jakki emphasised that they aren’t the low-maintenance pets some may expect. “They’re clingy and energetic. Pugs will follow you everywhere: even to the shower, and to the toilet,” she laughed.

Additionally, the breed is prone to health issues, including breathing difficulties and skin problems.

“We see a lot of pugs surrendered because owners weren’t prepared for the responsibility,” Jakki explained. “Education is key. We want every adoption to be a forever home.”

Rip off insurance and vet costs

Beyond rescue work, Jakki is passionate about advocating for policy reform. “The rise in insurance and vet costs is forcing people to make heartbreaking decisions,” she said.

Collaborating with animal welfare agencies to lobby for fairer policies is a goal she hopes to pursue in the future.

Join the Manchester Pug Thing family

Jakki and the Manchester Pug Thing’s dedication is clear. “We’re just a small rescue trying to do our best,” she said. “If anyone can help, whether by fostering, donating, or even sharing our story, we’d be so grateful. It would be a tragedy to lose this wonderful charity.”

For a night of great music and even greater purpose, get your tickets for The Beautiful Mancs on May 9th.

And if a squishy-faced companion might be in your future, consider opening your heart and home to a rescued pug. Because at Manchester Pug Thing, every dog has a chance at a happy ending, and every human has the chance to become part of the big Pug Family.

Manchester Pug Thing events

To keep up to date with Manchester Pug Thing and see what events they have going on, please click here to check out their facebook page