Last week I visited our Ilfracombe Rehoming Centre - it really must be one of the prettiest of all our locations especially when the sun is shining. Despite being compact, it manages to find homes for many, many dogs.

I enjoyed a guided tour and was really gratified to see so how many of the residents had been snapped up and were waiting to go to their new homes. Amongst all the wonderful dogs, two gorgeous Westies – Bill and Ben - caught my eye. They had been bought in as their owner had sadly died. Because she was carrying one of our Canine Care Cards it meant that we were able to step in quickly and take care of the dogs. Although Bill and Ben are rather elderly with a minor few health problems, they will make wonderful companions to the right rehomer and I’m looking forward to hearing about their new life soon.

The main reason I was visiting Ilfracombe was to present one of our staff, Sophie Eaton with her NVQ award. We take the training of our staff very seriously and were delighted that Sophie received a Highly Commended NVQ Certificate in Animal Care Level 2. From starting with Dogs Trust as a volunteer, Sophie has progressed and proved an essential part of the Ilfracombe team as a Canine Carer. She is now working towards her Level 3 NVQ.