BUILDERS MOVE IN TO DOGS TRUST ILFRACOMBE
(Ilfracombe, Local Event)
Dogs Trust Ilfracombe has been rescuing North Devon’s unwanted dogs since 1975 and is now set to welcome builders as well as canines as the centre undergoes 12 months of building work from today 30 January 2011.
The centre’s out-of-date kennels and public facilities will be rebuilt and existing structures will be refurbished and improved with sustainability in mind.
Dogs Trust Ilfracombe Manager, Pam Stow, comments:
“We are delighted that the centre is being rebuilt as it will mean such a difference to the dogs, staff and visitors. We may be a little untidy for a while, but the rehoming centre will continue to welcome visitors wanting to rehome dogs and will be rebuilt in phases to ensure minimal disruption. So, please do continue to come along and support us.”
At present, the Rehoming Centre has 46 kennels, 20 of which are in two out-dated ‘line’ blocks and 22 are in two parasol blocks, which were built between 1989 and 1996. All were constructed under very different budgetary constraints and without the knowledge of animal behaviour, and proven stress-reduction design which now exist.
Dogs Trust Property Director, Matt Taylor, explains:
“The last 10 years of research, design development and advances in behavioural knowledge have resulted in significant changes and improvements to the design and construction of Dogs Trust Rehoming Centres across the UK. The driving force behind the design improvements is the desire to constantly improve the environment for the dogs in our care. Happier dogs results in them being easier to handle and ultimately to re-home. As we have a non destruction policy, this is a priority for us. ”
Dogs Trust is committed to reducing its “carbon pawprint” and endeavour to use renewable energy resources where possible. Plans include:
- Photovoltaic panels on roofs
- High level insulation
- Underfloor heating in kennels
- Glass fronted, angled rehoming kennels
- Best use of natural daylight
- Reuse of existing developed land and buildings
Anyone wanting to rehome a dog should visit the rehoming centre at Hazledene, West Down, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 8NU or call 01271 812 709.
Dogs Trust is working towards the day when all dogs enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.