Tinkerbell’s Animal Sanctuary, named in honour of her two four-month-old kittens Tinker and Bell, was founded just four weeks ago.

The 40-year-old, who used to be a community carer, now looks after a variety of creatures – from cats to chinchillas – at her home in Rosemary Road, Kidderminster. And she has already successfully re-homed two ferrets and two gerbils as part of her new venture. 

Elaine said: “It’s a dream come true. I’ve always loved animals as my mum always had dogs and she used to take in injured birds and feed them worms.

“I get so much enjoyment out of it. The animals have so much love to give, even the ones that may have been ill-treated. I know there are a lot of groups out there already helping them but there are so many more needing help.”

Currently on her books are chinchilla, ferrets, rats and cats, and her garden is being transformed with outdoor enclosures including a hen house and an area for lizards and reptiles.

Spiders are the only creatures on her “no” list.

Read the full story in the Express & Star. 

Tinkerbell’s Animal Sanctuary, named in honour of her two four-month-old kittens Tinker and Bell, was founded just four weeks ago.

The 40-year-old, who used to be a community carer, now looks after a variety of creatures – from cats to chinchillas – at her home in Rosemary Road, Kidderminster. And she has already successfully re-homed two ferrets and two gerbils as part of her new venture. 

Elaine said: “It’s a dream come true. I’ve always loved animals as my mum always had dogs and she used to take in injured birds and feed them worms.

“I get so much enjoyment out of it. The animals have so much love to give, even the ones that may have been ill-treated. I know there are a lot of groups out there already helping them but there are so many more needing help.”

Currently on her books are chinchilla, ferrets, rats and cats, and her garden is being transformed with outdoor enclosures including a hen house and an area for lizards and reptiles.

Spiders are the only creatures on her “no” list.

Elaine added: “I have been brushing up on different animals at the library and on the internet so I know a lot already. But if I get anything unusual or anything needing more expert care I will pass them on to a specialist group.”

She said both her partner, Ian Elwell, 38, and seven-year-old daughter, Stephanie, were supportive of her new venture.

Elaine is funding the sanctuary herself but with help from Wyre Forest Animal Sanctuary and Wilson’s Pet Centre in Kidderminster.

To volunteer, or to donate food, bedding or cash, call Elaine on 07905 943307.