Gilly School for Dogs Rehoming

by Jessicaam in Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Gilly School for Dogs Rehoming

Total raised £0

£40,000 target 68 days left
0% 0 supporters
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 28th June 2025 at 1:36am

To buy land and build a dedicated rescue and rehabilitation shelter for large breed dogs—providing the space, training, and care they need.

by Jessicaam in Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Our Story 🐾

In the past two months, we’ve taken in and successfully rehomed three Cane Corsos—each one a reminder of how desperately large breed dogs need safe, understanding spaces. These powerful, loyal dogs are too often misunderstood, surrendered, or even euthanised simply because of their size and the lack of appropriate support.

We’re a blended family with six children and a shared passion for animals. My partner is a professional dog trainer, and I’ve been involved with dogs all my life. Together, we’ve created a nurturing, structured environment where dogs can begin to heal—and it’s working. But we’re at full capacity in our home, and the need is growing fast.

We’re now raising funds to purchase land and build a dedicated large breed rescue and rehabilitation shelter. With your support, we’ll create a sanctuary where dogs can be safely housed, trained, and supported until they’re ready for loving, permanent homes—just like the three and more we’ve already helped.

Our long-term goal is to continue this work on a bigger scale, with full assessments, behavioural support, and responsible rehoming that lasts. Every donation brings us closer to building a space where big dogs get the big love they deserve.

Thank you for helping us make this dream a reality.

Our Financial Plan 

Phase 1: Secure the Land – £40,000

This will cover the purchase of a small rural plot (1–2 acres) suitable for our sanctuary. We’re actively looking for land that allows animal rescue operations and has access to utilities.

Phase 2: Fencing & Safe Zones – £15,000

We’ll install secure perimeter fencing and create enclosed exercise and interaction areas where dogs can safely run, play, and begin rehabilitation.

Phase 3: Build the Shelter – £25,000

This includes weatherproof kennels with individual runs, food storage, a basic indoor area, and space for assessments and care. All designed with large breeds in mind.

Phase 4: Set Up Infrastructure – £10,000

Water, electricity, drainage, and a small office/medical area to allow for on-site care and management.

Phase 5: Operational Setup – £15,000

Covers the first 6–12 months of essential costs: food, bedding, vet care, equipment, and initial training/rehoming support.

Stretch Goal: £100,000+

If we surpass our main goal, we’ll expand the space to include:

• Training facilities

• Indoor/outdoor meet-and-greet areas

• Volunteer accommodation

• Education and community involvement space


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Rewards

This project offers rewards in return for your donation. Please select a reward below.

£1,000 or more

£1000 Reward

Lifetime VIP Access: Enjoy lifetime VIP access to all sanctuary events, plus a special plaque with your name as a founding donor.

£30 or more

£30 Reward

Thank-You Email: A heartfelt thank-you and updates on our progress toward securing land.

£40 or more

£40 Reward

Monthly Updates: Exclusive emails with the latest news on our land acquisition and sanctuary plans. Social Media Shout-Out: A public thank-you on our social media for your generous support.

£50 or more

£50 Reward

Exclusive Land Fund Report: A detailed look at how your donation is helping us secure our sanctuary land.

£75 or more

£75 Reward

Personalized Thank-You Card: A handwritten card from our team, showing our appreciation. Donor Recognition: Special mention on our website and social media.

£100 or more

0 of 100 claimed

£100 Reward

Early Access to Events: Priority registration for future sanctuary events and volunteer opportunities.

£200 or more

0 of 75 claimed

£200 Reward

VIP Donor Meet-and-Greet: An exclusive virtual or in-person meet-and-greet with our team to discuss the sanctuary’s future and your direct impact.

£500 or more

£500 Reward

Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Once the sanctuary is established, enjoy an in-person tour where you can see the animals and operations up close.

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