Visitors to Hever Castle & Gardens have been delighted by the loveable rescue huskies appearing at various events in recent years – but these dogs from the Siberian Husky Welfare Association (UK) have in fact been working hard, raising money and awareness to improve their plight.
Catherine Bailey, Head of Visitor Services at Hever Castle, said: “Since meeting representatives from SHWA(UK) at our inaugural dog show in 2013, we have been proud to support this fantastic charity. As well as raising money and awareness during this time, several Hever Castle employees have adopted huskies from the charity.”
Founded in 2007, the charity seeks to reduce the number of huskies being bred and to educate the public about the reality of owning these working dogs, highlighting their need for exercise and stimulation.
With over £4000 raised at Hever Castle events last year alone, the fundraising has enabled the SHWA(UK) to continue helping huskies in need by neutering and vaccinating them as well as rehoming orphaned dogs. The simple act of neutering prevents unwanted litters and helps break the cycle of breeding more unwanted dogs.
Kerrie Baker, SHWA(UK) Assistant Coordinator for the South of England and Wales, said: “On behalf of SHWA(UK) we would like to thank Hever Castle for supporting us and allowing us to use such a beautiful setting to fundraise. Without support our job within rescue is extremely hard, and the amazing staff at Hever Castle have helped so much.”
The huskies will again return to Hever Castle’s Christmas event in 2016, appearing each weekend from 26 November – 18 December and daily from 21 – 24 December. The public will have the opportunity to ‘hug a husky’ with Little Red Riding Hood and take their photo as a memento (suggested £2 donation). You can find out more about the charity by visiting shwauk.org.uk.
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.