The History of Border Collie Trust GB.
The Early Years
As with many organisations we would not be here today if it were not for the efforts of a particular individual, in our case a dog lover by the name of Hazel Monk. This lady had a real passion for dogs and Border Collies in particular. Hazel was involved with a rescue organisation (now known as the "Animal Welfare Trust") and worked with Ray Dedicoat in general rescue and welfare. Back in the 70's Hazel began to concentrate her efforts on Border Collies. In 1976 - the year when Border Collies were recognised by the Kennel Club, there was an increase in popularity and a new interest in collies. Hazels work and foresight had been vindicated. The inevitable followed!
Unscrupulous breeders & dealers looked to the collie for new profits. They generated many unwanted dogs and some distressed owners. Collie puppies were for sale with little or no information regarding their characteristics. As people realised their little bundle of black and white fluff was in fact an intelligent and highly motivated working dog, it was not long before unwanted puppies appeared in ever increasing numbers.
In 1976 motivated by her passion for collies, Hazel Monk with the support of the "Border Collie Club of Great Britain" formed "Border Collie Rescue". Run by volunteers and funded by donation, they began homing collies from all over the country. The areas covered and the amount of dogs rescued were limited only by the location and number of volunteers available. As with many voluntary organisations some people remained working with us for years, giving Border Collie Rescue stability. While others moved on after a short time, often due to other commitments, but all these people; volunteers, supporters and fund-raisers have contributed to the progress of the organisation and the welfare of the dogs.
The success we enjoy today is in no small part due to Hazel's dedication and ability to focus the enthusiasm of the volunteers. Hazel's health began to deteriorate and the work was handed over to Jennie Booth who became the National Co-ordinator. Hazel helped many dogs during the next 15 years - sadly she died in October 1992. Jennie took over the running of the rescue along with her husband Dave. In the early days they operated from their home and used private boarding kennels to house the dogs.
