SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Official opening for new dog facilities at Ferne Animal Sanctuary

THE official grand opening of new facilities at a South Somerset animal sanctuary is due to take place tomorrow (Thursday, February 25, 2015).

The Ferne Animal Sanctuary near Chard and was founded in 1939 by the late Nina, Duchess of Hamilton, and was originally designed to look after the pets of servicemen and women who were going away to fight for their country in the Second World War.

The sanctuary’s old, dilapidated kennel facility - which was nearly 50 years old and could not withstand another winter - was demolished during March 2014. The hard work then began to raise the funds needed for a new building and the creation of a £1million New Digs for Dogs project.

PHOTO - TOP: The new dog kennel facilities at Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

While an incredible £500,000 has come from the charity’s reserves saved for this purpose, the remaining £500,000 had to be obtained through donations and fund-raising events. They are now very close to achieving their target.

The new centre enables the Sanctuary to double its current capacity and now look after up to 50 dogs. Apart from the kennel block, it also includes an improved grooming and veterinary care room, social unit, offices, reception and a retail shop selling high quality goods.

Elaine Hayes, chief executive officer at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are formally opening our new re-homing centre. This is another landmark in Ferne’s history as we enter our 75th year. This centre will allow us to help more dogs find happy, forever homes across Somerset, Devon and Dorset.”

The ceremonial ribbon will be cut at midday tomorrow by BBC Somerset presenter Matt Faulker, to declare the new facilities open.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a registered Charity open to the public all year round, except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. They rely solely on donations. To learn about all their events and how to volunteer, please visit www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org or call 01460-65214.

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