FERNE Animal Sanctuary holds its annual dog show on Sunday (September 7) on its 72-acre site on the Blackdown Hills, offering a full day of activities for dogs, owners, families, and supporters.

This year’s event, supported by Wellington’s Mount Veterinary Hospital, has been extended to include a car boot sale.

Ferne chief executive Emma Purnell said: “Our annual dog show is a real celebration of our four-legged friends and a chance for the community to come together.

“It is always a highlight of the year for us, not only because it is such an enjoyable day, but also because it helps raise the funds we need to continue providing a safe haven for animals that need us most.”

Ms Purnell said every entry and activity on the day would raise vital funds to support the sanctuary’s ongoing work rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.

The sanctuary, founded in 1939, is one of the UK’s oldest animal charities and cares today for about 300 animals on site, while successfully rehoming another 200 to 250 each year.

Since 1939 it has helped about 40,000 animals find safety, rehabilitation, and a second chance.

A spokesperson for Ferne, which has a Wellington charity shop, said: “Alongside the dog show, visitors can enjoy the ever-popular ‘have a go agility’ course sponsored by Pawsome Fun Paddock, the ‘sit-and-stay challenge’ sponsored by Alro Services Ltd, and ‘temptation alley’ sponsored by Pawsh, designed to test the bond between dogs and owners.

“There is something for everybody at the event, with family games and activities, a car boot sale, a variety of stallholders, and a selection of food and refreshments available at the on-site Perdida Café.

“A wonderful range of local stallholders will also be joining this year.

“A highlight of this year’s event is the addition of a car boot sale, offering visitors the chance to browse and buy pre-loved items while supporting the sanctuary’s fund-raising.

“It is the perfect opportunity to pick up a bargain or upcycle unwanted items giving them a new lease of life.”

The sanctuary opens at 10 am, with an entry fee of £10 per car for access to the dog show, sanctuary, and car boot sale, including parking.

The dog show then starts at 10.30 am, with each class costing £2 to enter.

Car boot seller’s entry is from 8.30 am priced at £5 per car without access to the dog show and sanctuary, or £10 with access.

Dog show categories include: