Community · Devizes
Devizes animal rescue appeals for help after major sheep rescue mission
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A rescue charity near Devizes is at full capacity and facing significant veterinary costs after saving 15 sheep from the Tidworth area, with three animals still missing.
A Wiltshire animal rescue charity has been pushed to its full operating capacity following a challenging mission to save a flock of abandoned sheep found roaming near Tidworth. Heron's Farm Animal Rescue (HFAR), based near Devizes, is now appealing for public support to help cover the costs of housing, feeding and providing urgent veterinary care for the animals.
The situation began on 16 August when reports were made to police regarding a group of animals wandering through the area. While initially identified as goats, it soon became apparent they were sheep that had been left to fend for themselves. The rescue proved difficult, with the animals moving across Ministry of Defence land and venturing close to busy roads. HFAR confirmed that the sheep had no identification tags, making it impossible to trace an owner.
With assistance from Wiltshire Police, the RSPCA, local farmers and members of the public, the charity successfully brought 15 sheep to safety. However, the operation has left the organisation under substantial financial pressure. Among the immediate health concerns, one animal is being treated for pink eye, and 13 of the rescued rams require castration. The charity estimates that veterinary costs alone will reach approximately £1,000.
HFAR founders have stated that the charity cannot continue to operate at this level without additional donations to fund ongoing care and shelter while permanent homes are sought for the group. The RSPCA Wiltshire Mid Branch has already pledged support towards the neutering costs, but the charity remains in a difficult position.
Despite the success of the rescue, the incident is not yet over. Three sheep from the flock remain unaccounted for, and the charity is urging residents in Tidworth, the Salisbury Plain area and surrounding villages to remain vigilant. The charity is currently compiling a map of sightings to track the movements of the missing animals.
Members of the public are strictly advised not to attempt to approach, corner or chase the remaining sheep, as this could cause them to panic and move into dangerous areas. Instead, anyone who spots the sheep is asked to record the exact location, the time of the sighting, the number of animals present and the direction in which they are travelling. If it can be done safely, photographs or video footage may assist the rescue team.
Motorists travelling across Salisbury Plain and the surrounding routes are advised to exercise extra caution while the search for the final three sheep continues. Those wishing to assist with the charity's appeal can find information on how to donate via the organisation's official channels.
Source: Salisbury Journal · View original