This year, the Dorwest Foundation has proudly supported Waggy Tails Rescue, a Dorset-based charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned and unwanted dogs for over 30 years.
Amy Matthews from our marketing department visited Waggy Tails to see the incredible impact they’ve been making to the lives of both dogs and their new owners!
Who are Waggy Tails Rescue?
Based in Wimborne, Dorset, Waggy Tails provides far more than just shelter. They ensure every dog receives comprehensive care from veterinary support and grooming, to basic training and providing nurturing foster homes until their perfect forever family comes along. Their commitment to inclusivity shines through as elderly people who wish to adopt can receive dedicated support through vet bill coverage for dogs who require consistent medication or care. This allows both the dog and owner to enjoy their golden years together with peace of mind!
The challenges they face
In 2024, Waggy Tails Rescue received over 700 requests to take in dogs in need, highlighting the growing demand for dog rescue charities in the UK.
Space remains the biggest challenge for Waggy Tails Rescue, as their plans to move and expand to a 17-acre plot were recently denied. Undeterred, the charity remains steadfast in its mission to continue to grow to help as many dogs in need as they can. With continued donations and community support, they are determined to find innovative ways to expand their facilities, ensuring every dog has a chance to find their forever family.
They also faced an unexpected challenge when several dogs in their care gave birth to litters of puppies, increasing the demand for resources and support.
Dorwest visits Waggy Tails HQ
Amy had the pleasure of meeting Patch, the last of a Collie cross litter now six months old. While his siblings have found homes or foster placements, Patch is still waiting at Waggy Tails HQ for his forever family. Despite his rough start in life, he was incredibly sweet and playful. Like any young Collies, they are bursting with energy and intelligence, requiring plenty of training and mental stimulation.
Amy also met Lilly, a Rottweiler cross, a long-term resident who has been at Waggy Tails for around five years. Originally arriving at the charity at just two years old, Lilly has sadly been returned twice despite being delightfully friendly and intelligent. Now seven, she is well-trained in commands and clicker techniques and greets visitors with affectionate face licks. Building trust through regular visits is key to understanding her loving nature, and she is eager to meet a family who will give her the permanent home she deserves.
"It was truly inspiring to meet the incredible volunteers at Waggy Tails and witness their dedication to giving dogs a second chance. Their passion is contagious, and seeing the impact of their hard work first-hand was a privilege. It’s heart-warming to see how every donation and volunteer effort can create such a meaningful difference.” - Amy, Dorwest Herbs
Alongside our donation, we have also contributed Scullcap & Valerian Tablets to naturally support four-legged residents with fear, stress, and anxiety. Thanks to donations from the Dorwest Foundation and others, Waggy Tails can continue to provide essential care and training to dogs in need to help them find loving homes.
From fostering or adopting a dog to sponsorship, donations, and volunteering, every contribution makes a difference. Waggy Tails also have a charity shop in Ferndown and can be found at local fairs and fundraising events. You can also donate items, sponsor a dog, or become a “Friend of Waggy Tails” through an annual membership. Visit waggytails.org.uk or call 01202 875000 for more information today.
