Animal lovers in East Devon are being urged to back a new campaign to get ‘new digs’ for abandoned and unwanted dogs.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary launched its New Digs for Dogs Appeal - the £1 million project aims to build a new enhanced kennel block, improved groom and veterinary care room, and purpose built rehoming centre, to replace its dilapidated kennel facility.

The animal charity, which is based at Wambrook, Chard, has now raised £100,000 towards the appeal. It already has £500,000 in reserves.

Jenny Wheadon, the director of Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “Many people in East Devon are already avid supporters of Ferne. We place numerous animals in loving homes in your area, so to receive any support from your local community for our New Digs for Dogs 2014/15 project - no matter how small - would be wonderful.

“It would be nice to think that the need for places like Ferne is diminishing but, unfortunately, the reverse is true. The opportunity to improve facilities which will enable us to take care of more of our four-legged friends using much improved, 21st century technology is a huge challenge. It’s the biggest project we have ever undertaken.”

Ferne Animal Sanctuary currently provides a safe home for over 300 unwanted and abandoned animals.

During 2013, the charity rehomed 343 unwanted dogs and cats. It receives animals and finds homes for them within a 40-mile radius of Chard, which includes Devon and Dorset. Jenny added: “I would like to invite everyone to visit the fund-raising events page on our website and come to the sanctuary to see how the new building is progressing. The roof is about to go on. It’s such an exciting time for us all to know that such a wonderful facility will actually be ours by the end of the year. Please help us – and the animals – to achieve our goal.”

To find out how to donate or for a fundraising pack call Ferne Animal Sanctuary on 01460 65214 or visit www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org