Sheep sanctuary faces devastation from Storm Bert damage
- Storm Bert caused severe damage to a sheep sanctuary in Dorset, resulting in over £1,200 in repairs.
- The sanctuary, founded by Charlotte Reynolds, cares for 42 sheep with additional needs, highlighting its commitment to animal welfare.
- Financial support is needed to restore the sanctuary as staff and volunteers begin recovery efforts.
In Dorset, England, severe weather conditions during Storm Bert resulted in significant destruction at the Smallest Flock Sheep Sanctuary. Over the weekend, Charlotte Reynolds, the sanctuary owner, reported that strong winds and heavy rain partially destroyed the facility, causing damage amounting to £1,200. A field shelter was blown down, and the hay stored for feeding the sheep was rendered unusable due to being soaked by rain. This incident came shortly after a summer of preparations to safeguard the sanctuary against winter weather, following a previous loss of shelter due to bad weather conditions. The sanctuary, founded in 1997 by Reynolds, is dedicated to caring for 42 sheep with various needs, including those that are disabled or rescued from slaughter. Among the sheep are an old blind ewe and another sheep born without eyes, highlighting the sanctuary's commitment to a diverse herd that requires special care. The sanctuary's staff worked hard over the summer to prepare the animals for the upcoming winter, but the damages from the storm severely impacted their plan. Volunteers have stepped in to assist, launching a fundraiser aimed at helping with the necessary repairs to ensure the sheep have a dry space for shelter as they anticipate further inclement weather in the future. Despite the severity of the storm's impact, Reynolds noted that the sheep managed to cope surprisingly well during the harsh conditions. However, the loss of the shelter and the contaminated hay posed a serious threat to the sheep's well-being, as the animals rely on dry conditions to stay healthy. The Smallest Flock Sheep Sanctuary's experience during Storm Bert underscores the unpredictable nature of extreme weather events and their devastating effects on vulnerable communities and animals, reminding us of the importance of supporting such crucial rescue operations during trying times. As recovery efforts commence, the sanctuary is not only focused on repairs but is also actively seeking financial support to restore the safety and comfort of the animals under their care.