DEAN Farm Trust, an animal sanctuary just outside Chepstow, is appealing for help as it faces a particularly challenging winter. The trust provides a lifelong home for over 200 rescued animals, including Miniature Shetland ponies, donkeys, pigs, sheep, and hens.
To combat rising costs, the sanctuary’s founder, Mary Frankland, launched its Winter Appeal late last year. However, despite their efforts, it has not raised enough to cover the extra costs of caring for the animals during the coldest months.
“We launched the appeal months ago, but unfortunately, it didn’t come anywhere near what was needed,” explained Mary Frankland: Also “After Christmas, we saw a significant drop in donations, and the cancellation of monthly donations adding extra pressure.”
In response, the trust has relaunched the appeal with renewed urgency. Mary Frankland added: “These winter months are when we’re most in need. Every donation goes directly to feed, bedding, and medications for our animals.”
Caring for animals during winter is costly, and the trust faces a £5254 shortfall to cover the basics.
Mary Frankland outlined the challenges: “Feed, bedding, and extra medications for our most vulnerable animals are critical during this time. We’ve already spent £7,882 this winter, but we still have at least two more months of expenses ahead.”
The small team at Dean Farm Trust works tirelessly to ensure their residents are safe and comfortable, even in the harshest conditions.
Mary Frankland explained: “Our animal carers are out in freezing temperatures, ensuring every animal is fed, warm, and cared for. It’s physically and financially draining.” The sanctuary relies on a dedicated group of volunteers who travel from across the region to support its mission.
Mary Frankland shared: “Volunteers assist with cleaning and maintenance, which frees up our core team to focus on the animals’ health and wellbeing. It’s a real community effort.”
Dean Farm Trust offers a permanent sanctuary for animals rescued from neglect, abuse, or abandonment. Their residents receive individualised care in an enriched environment that prioritises their wellbeing.
Mary Frankland explained: “Each animal has a safe, clean home with proper nutrition and companions they choose to live with. We’re committed to giving these animals the life they deserve.”
The sanctuary is appealing to the public to help bridge the gap during this critical time. “Donations go directly to the animals—there’s no waste. Feed, bedding, and medications are our priorities right now. We’ve seen incredible kindness from our supporters in the past, and we’re asking for that same generosity again to get us through this winter.”
Mary Frankland emphasised the sanctuary’s reliance on donations to keep its operations going: “We’d happily walk everywhere on site to save on fuel and work without heating in the office if it meant every penny goes towards the care of the animals. Our priority is always the animals.”
“Together, we can make a difference,” Mary Frankland added: “Our animals depend on us, and we depend on the compassion of our Sanctuary Family to keep them safe and cared for. Any support, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated.”