A DORSET dog rescue is celebrating its 25th birthday, but says it is now time to find a new forever home for itself.

Waggy Tails Rescue was set up by Shelagh Meredith after she helped a friend in Wales who rescues animals re-home some of her dogs in the Bournemouth area. Shelagh then found herself being contacted by local residents who needed to give up their dog to find a new home.

However, now Waggy Tails Rescue has the same problem, Shelagh says – the need to find their own forever home as new housing developments are being built around their premises in Magna Road, Wimborne, which will eventually cause issues.

“We thought that we had found the ideal premises being in a semi-rural setting. Whilst our dogs that are temporarily homed in the facilities are not likely to cause any complaints, it’s our concern for the periods over bonfire night and Christmas and New Year when celebratory fireworks are enjoyed – but not by our canine residents, that we fear,” she said.

Shelagh said she and the charity’s five trustees and newly-appointed chairman Ginny Roberts, were “disappointed” that they needed to search again for a new location for the sanctuary.

The charity has provided care and re-homing services to 4,500 animals since 1994. It does not receive support from the government or local authorities and relies on donations from the public and some local businesses. Ginny became involved with the charity as a volunteer after adopting a dog in 2005 so fully understands the need to rescue and support pets that become in need of a loving home, especially if they had previously suffered neglect or poor treatment.

“None of the initiatives introduced over the years have made any difference to the need for Waggy Tails Rescue. We always have over 30 dogs each month, either with our voluntary foster homes or in care at the sanctuary where the few employed team members offer 24/7 care and attention on site,” Shelagh said.

Waggy Tails Rescue holds special presentation days every month so that people considering adopting a dog can meet the voluntary foster carers with the dogs that need re homing. Shelagh admits that one of the toughest parts of the job is assessing potential owners.

“We are always careful with the adoption process so that both the new owners and the dogs can have a happy, enjoyable and long relationship.

“The worse thing that can happen is the dog gets returned to us for any reason. Anyone who has owned a dog will understand what an amazing bond a dog can have with an owner and how devastating it can be for both the animal and human if that gets broken. We make no apologies for being very strict as our long-term goal of a happy future is our focus. We have so many people to thank who have helped make a real difference to so many of the animals who have passed through our care. It’s so very much appreciated.”