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Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Animal Sanctuary in Plymouth
Established in 1974, the Woodside Sanctuary has dedicated over five decades to rescuing and rehoming animals in need. Our sanctuary, based in Plymouth, Devon, provides a safe haven for cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, rodents, and farm animals, prioritising their welfare and long-term care. We pioneered spay and neuter programs to address overpopulation and actively engage in community outreach to promote responsible pet ownership.

Our team combines extensive experience with a commitment to ethical practices, ensuring every animal receives tailored care and a second chance at life. Through adoption, sponsorship, and educational initiatives, we strive to build a compassionate society where animals thrive.
Services
Animal Adoption Sponsorship Programs Community Outreach Spay/Neuter Services Pet Enrichment
Details
  • Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
  • We have over 50 years of experience in animal rescue and rehoming.
  • Our sanctuary provides lifelong care for elderly and special-needs animals.
  • We operate a successful spay/neuter program to reduce pet overpopulation.
  • Our team conducts community outreach to promote responsible pet ownership.
  • We guarantee lifetime support for adopted animals through our return policy.
Services
Animal Adoption
We rehome cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, rodents, and farm animals, ensuring each pet finds a loving environment. Our process includes pre- and post-adoption checks to safeguard animal welfare. Adopters receive ongoing support to ensure successful integration into their new homes.
Sponsorship Programs
Our sponsorship scheme allows donors to contribute to the care of specific animals. Funds cover veterinary treatment, food, and enrichment activities. Sponsors receive updates on their sponsored pet's progress and wellbeing.
Community Outreach
We deploy Welfare Officers to deprived areas to educate pet owners on responsible care. Services include free advice, parasite control, and promoting spay/neuter to prevent unwanted litters and improve animal health.
Spay/Neuter Services
Our pioneering spay/neuter program reduces pet overpopulation through subsidized surgeries. We target high-risk areas to prevent indiscriminate breeding, offering long-term solutions to animal homelessness and associated welfare issues.
Pet Enrichment
We provide mental and physical stimulation for sanctuary animals through tailored activities. Enrichment includes food puzzles, sensory toys, and safe play areas to enhance quality of life and prepare pets for adoption.
People
Carole Bowles MBE
Founder and Administrator
Carole founded the trust in 1974 and received an MBE in 2000 for her lifelong dedication to animal welfare. She continues to lead with unwavering commitment to ethical rescue practices.
Ann Marshall
Committee Member
Ann contributes her expertise in animal care and charity governance, supporting strategic decisions to ensure the trust's sustainable growth and operational excellence.
John Gordon
Committee Member
John provides financial oversight and fundraising guidance, leveraging his experience to maintain the trust's fiscal stability and community impact.
Questions
How do I adopt a pet from Woodside?
Visit our website to view available animals, complete an application, and undergo a home check. Our team ensures each adoption matches the pet's needs with the adopter's lifestyle.
Can I volunteer at the sanctuary?
Yes! We welcome volunteers for dog walking, fundraising, and shop assistance. Check our website for current opportunities and registration details.
How is Woodside funded?
We rely on donations, charity shop sales, sponsorships, and legacies. No government funding supports our work, making community contributions vital to our operations.
Do you accept donations of pet supplies?
Yes, we maintain an Amazon wish list for essential items. Monetary donations also help cover veterinary costs and daily care expenses.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily Plymouth and surrounding Devon areas, with outreach extending to communities requiring urgent animal welfare support.
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