Isle of Wight Branch

Reg. Charity No. 205311

To report stray or injured animals, or cases of cruelty, please ring the National 24 hr Cruelty and Advice Line:  0300 1234 999

 

Isle of Wight Animal Centre

 

Open Tuesday - Saturday   10.00am - 4.00pm

(Closed Mondays & Bank Holidays) - Last viewing for animals 3.30pm

 

Situated between Godshill and Rookley, the Animal Centre occupies a site at Bohemia Corner which lies at the junction of Merston Lane, and the A3054 Shanklin to Newport Road.

Extending to several acres, the centre provides a refuge and re-homing service for all types of domestic pets including Dogs, Cats, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and rodents. As the occasion demands, we also care for the more exotic pets such as lizards, snakes, tropical fish and the odd bird or two.

During the course of a typical year we will treat and re-home around 2000 animals, including many species of injured wildlife brought in to us by members of the public, or by the local RSPCA Inspector or Animal Collection Officer.

 

The Animal Centre was set up in the early 50's and at that time consisted of little more than a few old tin sheds and was affectionately known as the Dogs Home a name that many of the locals still use today.

             

 

                  Circa 1950                                                  Today's Reception Block

 

In 1956 the then trustees, Dame Violet Lloyd, Major-General Aubrey Williams (rt.), Sir Richard Tottenham and Sir Edward Boughton, were able to purchase the site for the princely sum of £1150.00.

 

               

 

                Kennel Block                                                                Cattery block

 

Since that time the centre has grown and now comprises two purpose built cattery units, housing 60 cats, three kennel blocks for 40 dogs, and a modern reception area together with a further block housing an assortment of rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, ferrets and the odd chipmunk or two.

The needs of the Island's wildlife are soon to be catered for following the approval of plans for a new wildlife unit.