A sanctuary responsible for saving the lives of thousands of animals is now fighting for its own survival.

The future of Happy Pants Ranch is in doubt after being told it would have to move from its current home at Yelsted, near Sittingbourne .

The centre rescues all kinds of creatures, from goats and cows to cats and turkeys.

An urgent plea posted on Facebook this week said: "The Happy Pants Ranch sanctuary is in jeopardy as it is losing the land and house where it's 350-plus rescue animals live!

"We desperately need your help to raise funds to relocate and secure it's future! Please donate if you can and help Save The Ranch!"

The charity was set up nearly seven years ago to offer a refuge for stray, abandoned or mistreated animals and is backed by a team of dedicated volunteers.

Its founder, Amey James, said that it was being forced to relocate, leaving the animals at risk if an alternative site cannot be found.

As a result, she has launched a £200,000 appeal to fund the move.

Appealing to supporters, she said: "The charity must now raise enough funds to buy land to relocate the sanctuary to and secure its future, which is why we're asking for your help and support to do this.

"The £200,000 will allow the charity to purchase new land (minimum of eight acres) and help go towards the cost of the move and any immediate development required on site, i.e. water, electricity, fencing and shelters etc.

"Ideally the land needs to be local, in north Kent, as the ranch has a fantastic local presence and support network where it is currently in Sittingbourne.

"We have a fantastic team of Ranch Crew volunteers, support from local businesses, collaboratons with local schools, homeless shelters, mental health organisations and supermarkets, so to move from the area and lose this would be detrimental to the charity.

"However we're all willing to relocate to wherever the charity has to in order to Save The Ranch, so if it needs to be further a field, so be it."

She added: "Yes, it's a big feat, but I believe its possible! This amazing little safe haven WILL be relocated so it continue helping needy animals and people!

"These animals and this sanctuary is my life, so I'm not giving up without a fight and I truly believe it can be done.

"I won't let the charity be shut down, see these animals given up and not be able to give hope to the future animals that will need our help. But I can't do it alone and need your help."

Amey said while she would welcome donations, people could also help by volunteering at the ranch, doing their own fundraiser or simply helping to spread the word.

"Every little helps a LOT and you CAN make a difference!"

To support the sanctuary, visit the online appeal page by clicking here.

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