Dogs Trust to shut Newbury rehoming centre in proposed shake up of charity

A dogs rehoming centre near Newbury could be shut if a charity’s proposed refocus gets the go-ahead.

Dogs Trust has announced that it plans to change the way it operates in response to “the perfect storm that is devastating dog welfare”.

It said the changes, which include closing its Newbury rehoming centre, which is based in Hamstead Marshall, and reducing kennel capacity at other centres, will focus on prevention work, by providing accessible support for owners whose dogs have behaviour problems to help them avoid having to give up their pets.

The proposed changes put 300 jobs at risk.

Owen Sharp, CEO at Dogs Trust, said: "We have been living through unprecedented times. The pandemic changed the dog population, and the cost-of-living crisis has brought continuing pressures and uncertainty for dog owners.

“I know Dogs Trust is making a difference, and our people are working hard to offer help and support when our services are needed more than ever.

"But in response to these challenging times, Dogs Trust must adapt to enable a better life for every dog.

“This is why we have made the strategic choice to refocus the organisation's work and change how we work, to maximise our impact whilst ensuring Dogs Trust remains financially sustainable in the long term.

“We are working to minimise the impact of these changes on our staff, although some staff will potentially be affected, as we reshape the organisation to make a bigger difference for dogs."

The charity said that more dogs are being handed over to them with behaviour issues and the changes will ensure it can provide more intensive support and expertise for the animals in its care.

It is also proposing to stop some of its prevention services so it can focus on helping more dog owners facing challenging behaviours from their pets.

Plans will also build on the charity’s fostering and Home Stay programme and include redirecting its international work through its sister charity, WVS (Worldwide Veterinary Service).

Dogs Trust is the UK's biggest dog welfare charity and employs 1,765 staff.