A much-loved rehoming centre is celebrating a decade of 'dogged' devotion as Dogs Trust Harefield has now been operating for 10 years.

The Harefield-based rehoming centre opened its doors in March 2006 as the world’s newest and most state-of-the-art dog rescue centre.

With features such as glass-fronted kennels with underfloor heating, a Real Life Behaviour Suite with one way glass viewing and a Veterinary Suite to ensure that all dogs receive prompt veterinary treatment, the ultra-modern facilities have helped nearly 10,000 dogs enjoy a relaxed and calm atmosphere before heading off to loving new homes.

Richard Moore, Dogs Trust Harefield rehoming centre manager, said: “From the day we opened our doors, we have been overwhelmed by the support of the local community.

“From dog lovers who have rehomed our rescue dogs to volunteers and people who have kindly donated food or dog coats, we have never been short of people wanting to do their bit to help the homeless hounds in our care.”

14-week-old terrier, Doris, celebrates Dogs Trust 10th birthday

The centre has brought endless joy to dog lovers

Having spent the past decade caring for thousands of abandoned and unwanted dogs, from Poodles to Pinchers and Great Danes to German Shepherds, the rehoming centre has brought endless joy to so many dog lovers.

As the tenth birthday celebrations commence, staff are taking the opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has supported them through the decade and helped thousands of homeless hounds find their furrytail endings.

Mr Moore added: “This fantastic support has continued to grow over the years and we have only been able to help save so many dogs because of it.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped us through the decade and would like to say, on behalf the nearly 10,000 dogs we have rescued, thank you so much.”

Volunteer Coordinator, Tracey Game and rehoming centre Manager Richard Moore

Dogs Trust Harefield fun facts

  • More than 100 dogs are cared for by the centre at any one time.

  • 936 – the average number of dogs rehomed each year.

  • Most unusual breeds to have been rehomed include Glen of Imaal Terrier, Italian Spinone and Pharoah Hound.

  • Top 10 most popular dog names at the rehoming Centre: Max, Charlie, Alfie, Ben, Molly, Toby, Rosie, Oscar, George and Lucy.

  • 35 – the number of members of staff ranging from managers, maintenance staff, canine carers, training and behavioural advisers, fundraisers and veterinary staff - This includes reception and tea Room staff too!

  • 176 – the number of volunteers currently helping the centre.

  • The rehoming centre manager Richard Moore. He has spent 17 years with Dogs Trust and the full 10 years at Dogs trust Harefield.

  • Staff members who have been at the rehoming centre from the beginning are: Mark Barrett, Erica Chadwick, Bernice Craft, Tracey Game, Karen Hynd, Sarah Pyzer.

  • Julia Smith is the rehoming centre's oldest member of staff.

  • Bethany Newman is the rehoming centre's youngest member of staff.

  • Some of the most memorable dogs to find themselves at the rehoming centre have been Archie, the dog who only responded to French commands, Maggie who found a home with TV presenter Eamonn Holmes and Shane and Chad who were long term sponsor dogs.

  • The longest canine resident is Ty, who is also a sponsor dog.