A Christmas of Care: Supporting St Francis Dogs Home

In the heart of Cornwall, on the outskirts of Newquay, lies a place filled with hope, wagging tails, and second chances. This Christmas, Whistlefish is proud to support St Francis Dogs Home, one of Cornwall’s longest-running and most loved dog rescue centres.

Founded in 1955 by Nancy and Mr Bates, St Francis began as a refuge for all animals before focusing solely on dogs in the 1990s. Over the years, it has become a lifeline for hundreds of dogs in need, providing safety, rehabilitation, and the chance to find a loving home.

a lifeline for Cornwall’s dogs

Every dog that arrives at St Francis has its own story. Some come from difficult family circumstances, others through local vets, or from owners who can no longer care for them. Each dog is assessed with patience and compassion before being carefully placed into foster care, kennels, or directly into their new forever home.

The rehoming process goes far beyond a simple handover. The team at St Francis, led by Centre Manager Beverly Dobson, follows each dog’s journey long after adoption. Every family receives follow-up calls and visits, along with free behavioural support if they need it. This aftercare ensures every rehomed dog continues to thrive and feel safe in its new life.

independent, local, and powered by kindness

Unlike larger national organisations, St Francis Dogs Home receives no government funding. Every pound that keeps the centre running comes from donations, legacies, and community fundraising. Veterinary bills alone can reach £5,000 a month, and the cost of rehabilitating a single dog can exceed £10,000. Yet through the dedication of staff, volunteers, and supporters, the home continues to give Cornwall’s dogs the love and care they deserve.

After years of effort, the charity is now completing a major rebuild of its kennels, allowing them to take in more dogs and provide expert behavioural training onsite. This new space will also open opportunities for education and collaboration across the county, offering young people the chance to learn about animal welfare and responsible dog ownership.

why Whistlefish is proud to help

At Whistlefish, we believe that caring for others is at the heart of the Christmas spirit. Our partnership with St Francis Dogs Home celebrates that same compassion, helping animals in need while recognising the incredible work being done right here in Cornwall.

Through donations raised from our Christmas collections, we aim to support St Francis in their mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs across the South West. Every purchase, every card sent, and every gift shared this season helps make that possible.

a shared heart for Cornwall

This partnership is part of our wider commitment to local causes that nurture kindness, community, and care - from restoring the Celtic Rainforest with Plant One Cornwall to giving a voice to the dogs who simply need another chance at life.

Together, we can make this Christmas one of hope for Cornwall’s four-legged friends.

Learn more about St Francis Dogs Home and the incredible work they do at stfrancisnewquay.org.uk