Oakwood Dog Rescue

“I adopted a dog from oakwood late last year. I had gone to look round several rescues before I found out about oakwood and unfortunately I didn't get a very warm reception from the others. I found out about oakwood from work colleagues who spoke very highly of them so I popped down there on my break. Quite sensibly they don't let people just wonder in and say 'I want that one'. But I quickly got a phone call from gill the owner and was able to go back that evening! I had a read through their adoption policy and we had a good chat about things which was really helpful and you could see how much they care about matching the dogs with their new owners. It was clear that its not just about finding the dogs a home it's about getting them the right home, their 'forever home'. I had a sneaky suspicion that they already had a particular dog in mind for me, and if my suspicions were right then they got it absolutely spot on! All I knew was I wanted a reasonably young dog of large/medium size. I had expected to fall for one (or two) of the Romanian underdogs that I had heard so much about, but my heart was with the larger then life hyperactive bouncy akita Lexus that I saw first! We decided that fostering with a view to adopt would be a good plan, we wanted to make sure this was the right home for her. Most of their dogs at some point are cared for and assessed in the home by experienced fosters. Turns out me and Lexus were a perfect match and I couldn't be happier with her. There have definitely been some challenging moments with her, but it's really helpful to know that oakwood are there when I need some advice. They also provide six months free training for your adopted dog which has been brilliant, although she gets very excited when she's back at oakwood as she remembers all the fun she had there with the girls who work there... Bear hugs all round! At first glance the adoption fee can seem a little more then other rescues I know, but as soon as you see what's included... it would have cost 5 times that to pay for every individually and with all the help, support and peace of mind you get from oakwood... More then worth it! If your thinking of adopting or fostering a dog then oakwood are definitely the people to speak to! I wish they had been my first stop! ”

- Mel Wolfe