Abbey Boarding Kennels

14/04/2025

Every day we try to improve things. Surroundings, care, paperwork, procedures, updates. Every day I love my team a little bit more. We now have agility equipment, stooge dogs and I couldn't be more proud. Each and every member of my team is fantastic and we will continue to reach for the stars 🌟

13/04/2025

I really do have the best team in the world, so many happy faces and waggy tails testify to the love and care given to each one. They aren't just dogs, they are little lives, precious souls. Some we have had to piece back together, some are still healing, a few came in with wounds that will forever scar but each and every one that passes through our doors, has given back way in excess of what we have given them. ❤️

12/04/2025

Happy Easter from our amazing dogs 🐰🐇🐣🐤🪺🥚💒🎉🐕🐶🐾

10/04/2025

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=958900336414655&id=100068840936077

🐾🐾 update, Thursday 10th April - we have notified the warden that we WILL be collecting Enid 🍾 . She will be safe, no idea where yet but that’s just semantics 😂. THANKYOU to every single person who has commented, shared and offered safe haven for her 🐾🐾

No, no, no, NO! It seems to be all we say these days, interspersed with an ‘I’m sorry’. I think we have all figured out that rescue is in crisis, the number of dogs in need of safe passage far exceeds the number of safe spaces available. It’s utterly heartbreaking. We used to try and support by offering advice or other rescues to try. We can’t even do that anymore. There are no spaces and advice is just pointless, digs have become disposable, simple as.

🙏🏻We have had a desperate request from a DW to help a beautiful girl who is going to lose her life on Friday. Yes, her and many others I’m sure but there was just something in what we were told about her that hit hard.

❤️She is very human friendly, to the point that when she meets people she is almost cat like and will lean into your legs for that human contact 💔.

📖 I’m going to call her Enid for the purpose of this post, there is no doubt this girl has a story to tell. She has been bred from more than once, described by the warden as ‘bred from within an inch of her life’, now she has served her purpose she has been dumped. She is in a council pound and her time is up Friday, without an offer of a rescue space she WILL be euthanised. Killed.

💉 This is not the choice of the warden, nor the kennel staff, it is quite simply the reality that after her time is served no one has responsibility for her, her space will be needed for another dog who has been dumped. It’s not right, it’s not fair but it is the way it is. These stray dogs are ownerless, doesn’t matter how lovely they are, without someone taking responsibility for them they die.

🏡 We would love to be able to save Enid, to do this though we need an urgent foster home. She is a stray so we have to say no young children, this is non negotiable, she is not tested around children, we won’t risk your children - you shouldn’t either.

🐶 Enid has been hit and miss with other dogs, you can’t gage much from this but it does mean we ideally need pet free or the means to seperate safely.

What we do know is she’s around 3 years old, she’s a cane corso (surprise surprise!!), she’s been no trouble in the pound and everyone who has been in contact with her has said what a sweetheart she is.

We will arrange transport so area isn’t relevant, we will cover all vet costs whilst in foster, we will be on hand to support through the foster process and fosters get first dibs to adopt.

Please help us help her. We literally have until Friday morning to make the call and say we will take her. We can’t make that call without somewhere to place her.

🙏🏻🙏🏻

01/04/2025

A few more of our beautiful dogs xx

01/04/2025

Salt's Helping Hounds Rescue recently sent us a whole host of goodies, 4 boxes full of bedding, toys, food, treats and more! In the boxes were some natural treats from Beautiful Joe's Ethical Dog Treats. To thank them and celebrate the amazing weather, we have done a bit of a photo shoot, dogs with treats and beds, dogs having fun in the sun, happy, healthy dogs. Thank you Salts, we think you will agree our dogs approved!
All credit for the photo shoot goes to Cole, Kirsty and Holly, you are the best team the dogs could have!

19/03/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1NhoykcySr/

Meet Norm – The Resilient Pup Ready for His Forever Home!

Norm’s story is one of survival, strength, and second chances. Originally named Storm, this beautiful boy has been through more than any dog ever should – but thanks to incredible rescuers and supporters, he now has a bright future ahead under the full Rescue Back-Up (RBU) of Salt’s Helping Hounds.

Norm’s Journey
Norm found himself in desperate need when his owner was forced to leave their home and couldn’t take him along. Tuk’s Law - Scan Me became involved in search of a rescue to help Norm. A rescue initially stepped up to offer him a place, but things quickly took a heartbreaking turn.

On arrival at the rescue, Norm was terrified. The rescue that had agreed to take him, Obi Save A Paw, run by Obi, was unable to even get him out of the van. Instead of working on this or seeking advice or help from those more experienced a web of lies were created.

As far as Tuks Law had been told he was taken to the vets to allow him a few days to decompress. But as the days passed and with the different updates they were given something didn’t feel right so they searched tirelessly for him—calling wardens, vets, councils, and even crematoriums, fearing the worst. It was only thanks to a transporter’s help that they were able to trace Norm’s last known location. What they discovered was chilling: he had been falsely presented as a stray at the vets and as is protocol the dog warden was contacted and taken to the pound. Norm was placed on the euthanasia list after serving his 7 days.
Determined to save him, they reached out to someone with true experience and compassion.

A dedicated team from Abbey Boarding Kennels went and drove hours to assess Norm because he was so traumatised that he couldn’t be released to the public. Norm needed a rehabilitation placement. It didnt take long to tell the Norm was fine, just a scared young dog who had been completely misunderstood and let down time and time again.

The Importance of Calling Out Bad Practices
Norm’s story is a stark reminder of why it is crucial for rescues to call out bad practices, we all make mistakes or could do better and we learn from that but when the actions could have resulted in a dog losing their life something has to be said or we are all complicit. Rescue work is about protecting and advocating for the animals, and when a rescue behaves irresponsibly, it is everyone’s duty to speak out to prevent future tragedies.
Far too many dogs like Norm slip through the cracks due to negligence, misinformation, or outright deception. Obi Save A Paw failed Norm in the worst possible way, and if they had succeeded in covering their tracks, he would not be here today.

Norm Today
Fast forward, and Norm is now thriving! He’s a happy, playful, affectionate boy who enjoys bum scratches, zoomies in secure areas, and all the love he should have had from the start. He’s gaining confidence every day and has proven that he’s not some “untouchable” dog—just a big puppy who needed the right people to believe in him.
Norm’s rehabilitation placement is currently being funded by Tuks Law, ensuring he gets the best possible care as he continues his journey to recovery.

What Norm Needs
Norm is now looking for a forever home that truly understands him. Here’s what he’s looking for:
* Breed-experienced owners who understand his needs.
* No other pets – Norm deserves to be the center of attention.
* Older, breed-savvy children only.
* A home that will embrace his vocal “diva” moments (especially around mealtime!).
Norm is currently eating six meals a day to help him maintain his weight in kennels, and he has a lot to say when he thinks he might be missing out on a midnight snack! He’s not destructive and is tolerant of other dogs in proximity, but he truly deserves a home where he can decompress and be adored.

How You Can Help
Norm has been let down time and time again, but we’re determined that his future will be nothing short of amazing. Until he finds his perfect home, his care needs to be funded, and we’d love your support in helping him continue to thrive. Whether you can donate, share his story, or even consider giving him a home, every little bit helps.
Norm is proof that a dog’s life should never be written off too soon. He’s full of love, potential, and personality – and now, he just needs the right people to give him the love he deserves.
Could that be you?

Please get in touch if you think you can offer Norm the forever home he’s been waiting for.

https://muttmanager.uk/FormSubmissions/Submit/35-6-Application_Form

Although Tuks Law are funding his rehab placement they need as much help as possible. If you are able to donate we know every penny makes a difference.
Please reference any donations with “Norm”

Paypal - [email protected]
Bank - Salts Helping Hounds Bank Account - HSBC
Sort Code 40-41-59
Account No 80003166

💫🐾

15/03/2025

If you don't have a sofa space for
Kraven, please like and share, that 1 share might just be his forever home 🏡
Formentino male puppy
Waiting for his new owner.
Could live with another large breed spayed female...
No very young children sorry but he is a baby and needs lots of care with more training, social walks short notice long ones...
Fully fenced garden with at least 6 ft fencing...
Contract for castrating will apply..
Please contact for more information on this wonderful puppy...
[email protected]

09/03/2025

Don't all rush at once, this stunning puppy will soon be looking for her forever home. Currently we are getting to know her, teaching her the world is not a scary place, that hands don't hurt you and that other puppies are fun. If anyone wants to help with mabels rehab, volunteer walkers and cuddlers are always welcome xx
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16JTgQxdeG/

🐾 Meet Mabel – A Brave Young Soul on Her Journey to a Brighter Future 🐾

Mabel is just 9 months old, and already, she’s had more upheaval than any pup should ever experience. She originally found herself under a rescue and placed in a foster home, but sadly, it wasn’t the right fit for her and they were unable to provide Mabel with what she needed.

That’s where Salt’s Helping Hounds Rescue stepped in when asked—because every dog deserves the right home, not just any home.

It was clear that the best way forward for Mabel was rehabilitation. This would give her the chance to decompress, gain confidence, and allow our team to truly understand her needs. She’s now been in rehab for just over two weeks, and while it’s still early days, we’re already seeing some wonderful progress.

🌟 What We Know About Mabel 🌟

🐕 Minimally dog reactive – Likely due to a lack of socialisation, but this is proving to be very workable with time and patience.
👨‍🦰 A little wary of men – With good reason. Mabel’s second home exposed her to domestic violence, and her previous owner was male. She simply needs time to build trust, and we are already seeing her open up in the right environment.
🍖 Came into our care severely underweight – She’s now on six meals a day to help her gain weight and strength.
🐾 Wobbly back legs – At this stage, it doesn’t appear to be neurological but rather a result of poor nutrition and lack of exercise. With the right care, this should improve.
🧸 Loves her toys – No destructive tendencies at all! She’s even kept her own bed in her kennel, which she adores.
🚶‍♀️ Great on the lead – Though she’s still a baby at heart! She’s cuddly, affectionate, and not yet independent—she likes to stay close, seeking reassurance.
👫 Growing in confidence – When she first arrived, she struggled with multiple people around her. Now, in the paddock, she’s happily interacting with three people at once—a huge step for her!

💔 Her Past 💔
Mabel’s early life was heartbreaking. In her first home, she was forced to fight her parents and siblings for food, and more often than not, she lost. Her "feeding time" consisted of handfuls of kibble thrown on the ground for mum, dad, and five puppies to battle over. 💔

Her second home was no better. She was surrounded by domestic violence, further reinforcing her fear of men. No dog should ever endure this kind of trauma.

💕 Her Future Starts Now – Thanks to Teamwork! 💕
Mabel’s journey to safety wouldn’t have been possible without an incredible team of people working tirelessly behind the scenes.

🙌 Huge thanks to Donna and Bev, whose relentless dedication to fundraising have ensured that Mabel gets everything she needs. Fundraising played a vital role in making this rescue possible, and it’s only because of this collective effort that Mabel has a real chance at a brighter future.

🐶 Ellie and her team at Abbey Boarding Kennels continue to work their magic in rehab, helping Mabel grow in confidence every single day.

🏡 Salt’s Helping Hounds Rescue provides lifelong RBU (Rescue Back-Up), making sure Mabel’s future is never uncertain again.

It takes a village, and Mabel is living proof of what happens when a team of people comes together with one goal—to change a life.

Mabel, you are safe now. You will never have to fight for food, love, or security again. 🏡🐾

To everyone who supports rescue efforts, donates, fundraises, fosters, and spreads awareness—you make this possible. Thank you. ❤️

Stay tuned for updates on Mabel’s journey! ✨

04/03/2025

Baby Bear who is patiently waiting for a home of his own, loved his time offsite with a lovely volunteer Caitlin.
If you would like to adopt Baby Bear, please apply to Team Poundie.
Volunteers are invaluable for socialising and giving our dogs extra time. If you have an hour or 2 spare, please consider dog walking or reading to dogs at your local rescue, we would love to have you but must be over 18, other places may differ.

27/02/2025

She will kill me for this but please can everyone give Kirsty Whaley some love. It has been 2 years since I decided to interview and add someone in to Team Abbey and kirsty thankfully applied and I honestly can't remember a time before her and couldn't imagine going forward without her holding up the team. As kennels manager she could be out there seeking all the glory for the standards we hold and the little lives we turn around, but that's not her way. Instead she calmly ensures every need is met, all policies, procedures and routines are fulfilled, sorts out every last bit of paperwork (that im shocking at), organises each day, helps guide new team members and listens to all my wacky ideas to move things forward and actions them, if i say I'd like all toys rotated daily, it's done, if I want all the dogs to have their own coats, it's sorted. You would be forgiven then to think she doesn't have much time for the dogs, not Kirsty! She can have a stack of paperwork and she will take a dog with her to do it, or she will find a dog to 'help' with laundry, not only do they love that 1 on 1 time, it helps the rescue dogs get used to household hustle and bustle. In addition to this, she will think of fun things, the treadmill, a Christmas photo shoot, an offsite walk, (all usually accompanied by Cole, who after only a year in the job is so game to try new fun things, or Holly, who will do anything fun suggested, however nuts 😀)
My favourite thing about her is that her utter love for all animals shines through and she takes time to know and treat every dog here as the amazing individual they are.
In short, i couldn't do what I do, our kennels would not be the same, our team wouldn't shine nearly as brightly without her.
Happy anniversary Kirsty, the best decision I ever made ❤️ ♥️ 💙

24/02/2025

We are sorry to announce that we are already so fully booked this year, we will only be taking bookings from existing customers. We will also try our best to book in any exempt dogs n memory of my beloved Dozer.
Team Abbey would like to thank everyone that has supported us to get to this amazing position, we are so grateful. I'd also like to thank my amazing team for everything they do to ensure the dogs in our care have have the best time possible.
Ellie and David ❤️❤️❤️

05/02/2025

We are on the lookout for a van for routine visits, group walks and puppy days out, we would be grateful if you could share this and if anyone knows of one available for sale (as cheaply as possible), please let us know. 🚑🐕🚑🐕🚑

04/02/2025

Looking to lose weight? New years resolution to get fitter but gym membership isn't for you? Do you have a couple of hours to spare on Friday afternoons? Fear not, we have a solution! We are looking for a volunteer or 2 to join our Friday group walk. You need to be over 18, love dogs, and be physically fit. You will join 1 of our group walks, matched with a dog according to your experience, to help us socialise rescue dogs. At all times you will be accompanied by experienced knowledgeable team members. We can't pay for this position but it's an excellent way to make friends, gain work experience and improve your fitness.
Interested? Please message the page with a bit of information about yourself, we'll let the dogs have a read and reply to you as soon as possible xx

04/02/2025

Henry Noodles on the treadmill, just for his Auntie Julie to thank her for his super yummy treats. 😍

04/02/2025

A huge, huge thank you to Wendy from balto dog rescue for our amazing self propelled doggy treadmill. This gives us so many options, to teach dogs to walk on lead, to let dogs have a really good run that maybe can't be let off in the paddock, to let dogs have a really good run in temperature extremes, and for physio where needed. A huge well done to Kirsty and Cole for beginning to teach the dogs how to use it and being their own little cheer leaders 🐕🏃‍♂️💖