Our History
Holbrook Animal Rescue was founded in 1992, when our family became aware of the number of horses and ponies in our local area who had nowhere safe to go. Many were at risk of being sent to slaughter simply because they were no longer wanted. What began with rescuing just a couple of ponies soon developed into a growing effort; as word spread, more horses in need found their way to us. Within only a few years, we had taken in over 160 horses and ponies, rehoming many and providing lifelong sanctuary for those who were elderly or unwell.
From the very beginning, Holbrook was driven by a simple belief:
Every animal deserves kindness, safety and respect.
As our experience and reputation grew, other animals began to arrive — dogs, small domestic pets, and even injured wildlife. At one point, the house was home to orphaned hedgehogs in incubators, wild birds being hand-fed every twenty minutes, and rabbits recovering from neglect. These early years were completely self-funded, carried forward only by dedication and compassion.
Over time, we recognised that to provide the very best care, we needed to focus more closely. Gradually, Holbrook transitioned into the rescue it is today: a centre primarily devoted to dogs, alongside a small number of resident animals who will remain with us for life.
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In 1999, Cliff joined the story — quite by chance — in a pet shop. Cliff was managing the shop at the time, and Laura regularly visited for supplies. One bag of donated pet food became two, then conversation, then friendship, and eventually the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
The rescue has been shaped by that partnership ever since.
Cliff now handles many of the practical, essential aspects of daily life at Holbrook: building runs and shelters, collecting feed and supplies, organising veterinary care, and supporting the dogs from the moment they arrive. Holbrook remains proudly family-run — not just in name, but in how we live, work, and care.
In 2010, Laura and Cliff married at Gretna Green — but even on their wedding trip, they were still responsible for baby animals in care. At the time, they were hand-rearing baby squirrels, hedgehogs and a young pigeon. Because they couldn’t leave them with anyone, the incubators came too.
So, tucked discreetly under arms, the incubators were carried through hotel lobbies, plugged in beside beds, and fed throughout the night — all while celebrating a wedding. It was unconventional, chaotic, and full of love — very much in the spirit of Holbrook.
Alongside the rescue work here in the UK, Laura and Cliff have also devoted many years to helping dogs overseas, particularly in Greece. This began during family holidays, when they saw first-hand the challenges faced by stray dogs living on the streets — animals struggling without shelter, veterinary care or protection.
What started with offering food and basic first aid soon grew into a long-term passion project. Twice a year, Laura and Cliff travelled to support local rescue teams, helping to organise:
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Emergency veterinary treatment
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Vaccinations and parasite care
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Neutering programmes
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Rehabilitation for injured or frightened dogs
The emphasis was always on reducing suffering at its source. Neutering and medical care meant fewer puppies being born into hardship, and fewer animals struggling to survive on the streets.
It was emotional work — often difficult — but deeply meaningful.
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A small number of dogs came back to the UK but most were treated and rehomed safely with the support of partner organisations across Europe., particularly in Germany.
More than 30 years later, our commitment remains unchanged:
To provide a safe, nurturing environment where animals feel valued, understood, and loved. We continue to work with our friends in European organisations, providing rescue back-up for unsuccessful rehoming attempts in the UK.
Holbrook is not a kennel-style rescue. Our dogs live in a home-style environment, supported by experienced, compassionate volunteers who help them rebuild trust and confidence, ready to begin their next chapter with a new family.
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Over the years, we have seen significant changes in animal welfare and the challenges faced by dogs in need. Sadly, cases of neglect, cruelty and abandonment have become more common. Many of the dogs who arrive at Holbrook have experienced early trauma — being kept in cages, denied social contact, or simply overlooked and forgotten.
At Holbrook, we offer help without judgement. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the animal in front of us. Every dog that comes to us is treated with patience, calm understanding and the chance to begin again.
The period following the Covid-19 pandemic brought new and complex welfare issues. During lockdown, demand for dogs rose dramatically. Many dogs were bred quickly to meet this demand — often without proper health checks, socialisation or responsible planning.
As life returned to normal: People went back to work, dogs were left alone without preparation. Many were never neutered and early training and socialisation were missed.
This has resulted in a high number of dogs who struggle with anxiety, reactivity or confidence — making them harder to rehome and more expensive to care for. Neutering, training and behavioural support are essential, but they take time and resources.
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For dogs who have experienced trauma, loss or isolation, a canine companion can be the key to rebuilding confidence and forming healthy attachments. Our priority is always to give each dog the greatest chance of long-term success in their new home.
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We believe every dog deserves not just a home, but the right home.
One where they are understood, supported and truly able to thrive.
