This December, we had the pleasure of volunteering at Margaret Green’s Church Knowle centre in Dorset, helping to restore a storm-damaged shed and tidy the cattery garden. We also donated a range of Dorwest products to their Lincoln Farm site, giving the dogs a festive treat and selection of beneficial supplements to help give them the best start as they wait to find their forever homes. As a charity caring for animals of all shapes and sizes since 1965, it was wonderful to work alongside people who share our passion for animal welfare.
We think it’s important to recognise and support local charities, especially at a time when there is a rising tide of puppies and kittens being donated to rescues. Many charities struggle every day with limited funds and staffing challenges whilst trying to maintain their centres and continue caring for the animals who need them.
With three centres across Dorset and Devon and over 200 volunteers, hundreds of people across the South West give up their time to support Margaret Green as they rescue goats, ducks, rabbits, sheep, horses, donkeys, dogs and cats.
Rolling up our sleeves
On arrival, our team jumped straight into helping repair and reorganise the contents of one of the charity’s storage sheds – a vital space used to hold equipment for their fundraising events. Recent storms and high winds lifted and shifted the shed off its base, scattering the contents and causing disarray.
Everyone got stuck in, reassembling what had broken and organising the contents of the shed ready for future use. It was a small gesture compared to the year-round work the rescue staff and volunteers complete, but one we were proud to support as it helped secure and protect their equipment for future fundraisers.
Life at the rescue centre
Margaret Green have a large number of cats and an extensive cattery, including their own resident cat, Lily. A firm favourite among staff, Lily is a long-term resident who struggled to settle in the cattery or in a home environment. She now lives happily within the communal office and kitchen areas, spends her days roaming around the extensive grounds, stopping for fuss and even befriending the horses — often sleeping on their backs for warmth or making herself a cosy bed in their hay!
Black cats are sadly the most overlooked when it comes to adoption. To help make their homes a little brighter, the Dorwest team dedicated their time to clearing weeds and tidying the area behind their enclosures. With colder weather approaching, ensuring their spaces stay clean, dry and comfortable is essential.
Meeting the residents
Bingo the retired racehorse
We were introduced to Bingo, a 12-year-old Thoroughbred who came to Margaret Green after retiring from racing in 2023. Now living life in the slow lane, Bingo’s gentle and sweet nature has shone through, creating a wonderful bond with his carers. As a striking bay gelding, the team told us how he loves a good groom and enjoys liberty and groundwork as it helps him build trust with the people around him.
It was wonderful to see him enjoying a well-deserved quiet life, as he is one of several horses given sanctuary here, patiently waiting for his new home.
The Donkeys
The team also had the pleasure of meeting some of the charity’s long-term donkey residents, Sid and Jake. This cheeky pair are 17 and 21 years old, arrived back in 2012, and have been enjoying life at Church Knowle ever since.
They are very loveable characters who adore having straw in their feed nets and hay in their wellies at lunchtime, which they have fun picking up and flinging around in the air!
Many people don’t realise just how costly and specialised donkey care can be. Since they originate from warmer, drier climates, donkeys can often struggle with the cold and wet fields here in the UK, which is why providing the right ground conditions and shelter is essential.
Lenny – the loveable Lurcher pup
Lenny stole hearts the moment he arrived at Margaret Green’s Lincoln Farm centre — and ours too when we met him. At just around three months old, he’s bursting with curiosity, enthusiasm and affection, and although he’d only been there a matter of days, he was already reserved for a new home. A true testament to his sweet, cuddly nature!
Why it matters
As a family-run company rooted in animal wellbeing, we believe strongly in supporting the charities working on the front line of rescue and rehoming. Spending time at Margaret Green gave us a firsthand look at the dedication, compassion and hard work that goes into caring for animals of all shapes and sizes.
By volunteering, offering product donations and sharing their story, we hope to shine a light on the incredible work they do and encourage continued support for rescues who rely heavily on donations, volunteers and community kindness.
Want to make a difference?
Fostering a dog
Margaret Green have set up a fostering scheme with the support of trained volunteers, providing the option for their rescue dogs to stay in a foster home whilst they wait for their forever home. They’re always on the lookout for volunteers to join!
Email: lincolnfarm@mgar.org.uk or call 0330 400 6670.
Send something wrapped up with love
This festive season, many of Margaret Green’s rescue animals will be waiting to find their forever homes, but you can still make their Christmas special by:
- Donating to help keep them safe, warm and cared for: www.mgar.org.uk/donate
- Filling a shoebox with goodies and delivering it to your nearest centre or charity shop
- Choosing a gift from their Amazon wishlist: www.mgar.org.uk/amazon-wishlist
Rehoming a dog
Sadly, many animals are surrendered to Margaret Green due to neglect and abandonment, but with your support, you’d be able to give them the care and attention they need to thrive.
Why are so many puppies and kittens being given to rescues?
This is largely due to breeders struggling to sell litters because of a drop in demand, coupled with rising living costs. Many are simply being surrendered because they’re no longer profitable or desirable.
If you’re thinking of getting a new companion, consider rehoming — Margaret Green have received over 47 puppies and 42 kittens in the last six months alone.
Get in touch
From fostering or adopting to sponsorship, donations or volunteering — every contribution makes a difference. Margaret Green Animal Rescue operate three centres across Dorset and Devon:
- Church Knowle, Dorset – Cats, small animals, equines and farm animals
- Lincoln Farm, Dorset – Dogs
- Wingletang, Devon – Dogs and cats
You can also explore their eight charity shops across Dorset or look out for them at local fairs and fundraising events.
Visit www.margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk for more information.
If you want to learn more about our charitable donations & updates, visit our Dorwest Foundation page to see our latest activity or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok!
If you have any questions or need any help choosing which product is best for your pet - feel free to reach out and contact us our expert and friendly team on 01308 897272 or email info@dorwest.com.
