Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

Chard.  Someset.  TA20 3DH.

Set in 51 acres of glorious Somerset countryside, this tranquil setting is the home to approximately 300 unwanted/retired animals varying in size from horses to chipmunks.  With outstanding views over the Yarty Valley, a nature trail and picnic area,  Ferne is the visitor attraction where people with an affinity for rural life and the welfare of animals will want to return again and again.

The nature trail, dragonfly ponds and conservation area all add to the peace and tranquillity offered to the resident animals at Ferne.  A collection of vintage agricultural machinery prompts the imagination to slip back in time visualising how our fthers and grandfarthers went about their chores.

There are picnic tables around the non-smoking site for you to enjoy your picnic wherever you choose and rustic seating for when you are weary.  (wheelchairs are available on request). 

The Van Heemstra animal shelter, (next to the stable block) offers poor weather accommodation for Ferne's herd of mixed breen cattle, goats, horses and ponies.

Accommodation for the many other animals has been funded, or partially funded by the Sanctuary's generous supporteers and visitors.  There is no admission charge,  Ferne relies entirely on donations, legacies and grants to fund both running costs and improvements.  Many animal lovers who are unable to keep an animal themselves, (perhaps they do not have the facilities, they may not be fit enough to offer the care that is needed, they may have tenancy restrictions, etc.), find the sponsorship scheme of great interest.  Sponsorships range from $5 to $25 annually.  When you join the sponsorship scheme, you will receive a photograph, quarterly newsletters and any relevant updates about your chosen animal.

Sponsorships make great gifts too.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary was founded in 1939 to provide refuge for the pets of those leaving to fight in the war: sadly, but predicably, many owners did not return.  The Sanctary found loving homes for some of the peets and gave life-long care to the remainder.  More than 65 years later the work of caring for the unwanted companion and farm animals continues.

High in the Blackdown Hills of South West England, this 51 acre estate is permanent home to cattle, sheep, goats, donkeys, horses, feerrets, pigs, chinchillas, chipmunks, guinea-pigs, rabbits, ducks, chickens, and cockatiels.  Loving, local homes are south for the cats and dogs but some are happier staying at Ferne.

When rehoming dogs and /or cats, no animal is bought from Ferne, we ask for a donation towards the work that is carried out at the Sanctuary.  Rehoming only takes place locally, (within a 30 miles radius of the Sanctuary) and wherever possible, one of Ferne's volunteer Home visitors will visit adopters on an annual basis throughout the life of their pet.  It is not a check on the adopters, it is the Sanctuary's way of reminding you that it is here to offer supports.  Should an unexpected change occur in an adopter's life which results in them being unable to continue to offer the dog/cat a home, the animal is guaranteed a place  at Ferne.  It need never be homeless again.

Open every day 10am til 5pm. except Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

We have a Tea Room and well stocked Gift Shop.   Guided tours and coach groups are welcome by prior arrangement.  A classroom is available for schools or groups on request.

Dogs are welcome (on short leads) and Children must be accompanied by a Responsible Adult)

The majojrity of the Sanctuary is wheelchair friendly (including the nature trail) Disabled toilet and baby changing facilities are also available.   Refreshments available from reception monday to friday 10am til 4.45pm, when the Tea Room is closed.

Phone 01460 65214.   www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org