History of NGDR
Our history
In the 1960s Muriel Osborne started a rescue service for Great Danes. At that time there were fewer breed clubs, but most did their best to help a Great Dane in need. In 1982 Great Dane owners and representatives from five breed clubs united to form a committee. The Midland & West Great Dane club already ran a rescue service, and consequently they were able to advise the committee on appropriate paperwork for the forthcoming new charity.
The organisation achieved its charitable status on the 19th April 1984, becoming NATIONAL GREAT DANE RESCUE (Charity Number 289344).
In 1988 NGDR persuaded the Kennel Club to allow a rescue organisation to have a stall at Crufts. This privilege was only reserved for the breed clubs.
Rehoming then and now
The number of Great Danes rehomed nationally in 1985 was 100 – 73 dogs and 27 bitches. In 1990 that number was far exceeded, approximately 600+ were rehomed through breed organisations, and dog centres. As the new millennium progressed, fewer Great Danes came into our care. In 2012 we rehomed 24.
The internet has become the prevalent form of communication, so Great Danes are increasingly advertised for sale, at any age, any price, even ‘free to a good home’. In consequence our role has adapted. We mainly offer guidance on health and behavioural matters, rehoming an average of 10 Great Danes annually. Other Great Dane organisations are also noting the changes.
All Great Danes are fully assessed, before they move on to their new home. Likewise, the new applicant is home checked to ensure that they have suitable facilities and can provide for the Great Dane’s needs. Only when these criteria are satisfied, is an appropriate Great Dane offered for adoption.
Our Committee
NGDR has a small hard-working committee and each trustee has a defined role. Besides the caring and rehoming of the Great Danes, there is the task of bookkeeping by the Treasurer, the management of membership, the production of the annual magazine and the huge task of raising funds.
NGDR takes a professional approach to all matters concerning our Charity, and the existing committee builds on all the hard work and achievements of our predecessors.
