Run by a group of animal enthusiasts, Foal Farm has become a beacon of hope for neglected and exploited pets and farm animals, transforming their lives and providing a sanctuary for them.

Foal Farm is situated in Biggin Hill and runs over a 26-acre site which acts as a home to an array of animals, from the traditional farmstead tenants like cows, pigs, and chickens, to a growing population of rescue pets.

Over the past 61 years, Foal Farm has worked tirelessly to provide a safe and nurturing home to all types of animals, helping some back to health and teaching them to be more socially comfortable.

Denise Hodge, commercial manager of Foal Farm, told the News Shopper: “When we rescue the farm animals they stay here for the rest of their lives, and we provide an animal sanctuary for them.

“The animals that need rehoming are the pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens, mice, and Guinea pigs”.

One of Foal Farm’s biggest “problems” is that it’s “quite expensive” to run, Donna says, as it relies “heavily” on the local community for donations, such as fundraising events, support from local companies, and people leaving money to the farm in their will.

“Our vet fees alone are around £12,000 each month”, Donna added.

Foal Farm is one of many affected by the recent ULEZ changes in and around London, which meant its previous animal ambulance did not fit the criteria.

They quickly had to raise money to buy a new animal ambulance, so organisers created a Crowdfund page in early June.

The donation page closed on June 27, and Foal Farm managed to raise more than its original target of £25,000, which meant it was able to buy a more efficient vehicle.

News Shopper: On September 6, the new and improved animal ambulance arrived at Foal Farm with the necessary kennels and equipment needed.

Denise said “Our supporters have been absolutely amazing.

“They dug deep, and all gave a lot of money – we had local companies host fundraising events for us.

“As we exceeded our target, we were able to buy a brand new vehicle with vents in the back, insulation, and cages and kennels fitted with safety locks.”

Many people across Kent, London and beyond have volunteered their time and resources to help care for the animals, providing them with the attention and care they need to thrive.

News Shopper: From cat fussing to feeding goats, walking dogs to socialising rats, the team and volunteers at Foal Farm dedicate every day to ensuring the kindest care to each animal.

Denise added: “We rely on our volunteers; we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them.

“We have them across all areas of the farm, from mucking out the pigs to feeding the goats to cuddling the cats to walking the dogs.”

Annually, Foal Farm successfully places around 500 cats, dogs, and small animals into loving homes, while also offering a permanent haven to over 100 farm animals and pets.

The adoption process is open to the public - you can head to the Foal Farm website to read more about adopting the ‘pawfect’ pet.