Our story
Friends of Wallace Kennels (FOWK) was first set up in March 1990 as a small ‘support group’ to help Wallace Kennels, based in Stondon Massey, Brentwood, Essex.
Wallace Kennels was initially established in 1975 by Vera Robinson as boarding kennels. Over time it became obvious to Vera that there was a severe problem finding a place of refuge for the stray, unwanted and abandoned animals of Brentwood and the surrounding areas. By 1983 Vera had decided to turn the Kennels into a sanctuary and rescue centre for all animals in need, with dogs being a major concern. She was awarded an MBE in 2006 in recognition of her tireless work over many years rescuing, caring for and rehoming these dogs. Vera sadly passed away in 2010, since which time her son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Dee Robinson, have run the Kennels.
Wallace Kennels now takes in stray and abandoned dogs from Brentwood, Chelmsford, and sometimes, other surrounding authorities.
FOWK is still a relatively small charity, with a committee which organises all the fund-raising events.
As well as donating significantly to the day-to-day expenses of running the Kennels, FOWK also pays the vets bills and covers the electricity costs. All dogs that come into rescue are vaccinated, treated for worms and fleas, microchipped and spayed/neutered where necessary. In addition, many dogs come in with various health issues and, where they can be treated, FOWK also pays for those treatments. We also help with funding towards improvements at the Kennels, as needed.
FOWK is fortunate to have members and volunteers who regularly give up their time to help at our fund-raising events, such as the popular jumble sales. Nominal membership fees help towards our funds and from time to time we are also lucky enough to receive legacies, which have enabled us to support Wallace Kennels to a high standard.
We always welcome new members (aged 18 years+). Joining us does not obligate you to anything else, although we always appreciate donations or offers of practical help where possible. If you are interested in joining please complete our application form, or contact us via the email link below for more information.
Support us through a JustGiving donation
Text REHOME to 70470 to donate £3
Support us with a donation by text message. Texts cost £3 plus one standard rate message. You won’t be opting into any further comms from us.
Or you can donate any other amount between £1 and £20 by specifying a number in your text message. For example, texting REHOME 5 to 70470 will donate £5.
You will have the option to add Gift Aid by following the link provided when you receive confirmation of your donation.