TAILS are wagging at a Dorset animal rescue charity following the opening of a new ‘enrichment garden’ for dogs.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue has created the garden at its Lincoln Farm Rescue Centre in Bere Regis to provide a special space for its rescue dogs to relax, play, explore and gain confidence.

Glynis Bartlett, who has driven the project at the charity’s rescue centre, said: “We see a lot of dogs come in who have already been through so much in their short lives.

“Some of them find it very hard to adjust to living in kennels and the enrichment garden is designed to offer something for every dog, to encourage them to become more confident in their surroundings.”

The centre’s manager, Helen Chittock, added: “The aim of the garden is to enrich the lives of the dogs in our care and to stimulate all their senses. Features include a pond and fountain, a sand pit, a raised kennel offering an elevated view, a bamboo forest, different textures to walk on, and carefully chosen medicinal plants for self-selection.”

The charity has already seen great results after several of the rescue dogs were let off to explore in the garden.

One recent arrival, a Sheltie Collie cross called Marley, who had a back leg that was deformed in an accident and needed to be amputated, has been enjoying the garden as part of his recovery.

Glynis said: “It is so rewarding to see the garden already helping dogs like Marley who have been through so much.”

The garden was in part funded by Pedigree, which awarded the charity a grant of £3,000, and several volunteers have also purchased plants and supported the garden in other ways.

Helen added: “We are so grateful to everyone who has got behind this project and helped us achieve so much for the dogs. Thank you to Pedigree and all of our amazing volunteers.”

To find out more about Margaret Green Animal Rescue,visit margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk