At the end of 2023, we supported Ferne Animal Sanctuary with a donation from our Dorwest Foundation. Ferne have been rescuing and re-homing animals for over 80 years based in Chard, Somerset. The Dorwest team recently visited Ferne to understand more about all the good work they do.

The Dorwest Foundation was launched as part of our 70th birthday to show our commitment to ongoing charitable giving. The Foundation helps dogs and cats that are in need of care, health and quality of life improvement. We donate to established animal welfare charities on an annual basis through 10% of profit of every sale from our special foundation products Keeper’s Mix® and Keeper’s Mix® Sensitive.

Founded in 1939, Ferne Animal Sanctuary is based in Somerset and home to over 300 animals. These include: dogs, cats, horses, a miniature highland cow and much more – so they have their hands full in making sure all these animals are loved and cared for!

The Sanctuary was originally set up to help men and women helping the war effort during the Second World War, offering care for those having to leave their pets behind. Ferne still provides the same respite today for people who cannot take care of their animals temporarily, as well as a rescue centre helping surrendered or stray animals to find their new, forever home. Benj & Gini from Dorwest went to meet the team at Ferne to find out a bit more the great work they do and support they need.

When a rescued dog arrives, they are taken to Ferne’s check-up room, and given a once over by a local vet. They then need to have de-worming and flea treatment, as well as be micro chipped, vaccinated and neutered. Next, they work with Ferne’s Animal Care team to gain confidence, improve socialisation and address any behavioural problems that they might have due to previous experiences. This process needs constant financial support to ensure all animals are happy and healthy before being advertised for a new home.

The dog re-homing centre includes kennels - all are set up with underfloor heating, and either a bed or crate, depending on the dog’s preference. During quiet times, there is relaxing music played through the halls to try and relax the resident dogs. They also get walked through out the day by volunteers and get taken out in a paddock where the dogs can explore.

Benj & Gini met three dogs in particular who the Dorwest Foundation has helped in the process for adoption, including:

Ferne Animal Sanctuary relies entirely on donations to continue its fantastic work in caring for unwanted and abandoned domestic & farm animals. If you are interested in donating to Ferne or adopting an animal, please visit www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org, call 01460 65214 or email info@ferneanimalsancyuaru.org.