Where It All Began…

We would like to thank all our supporters, new and old! We are so very humbled to have your continued support through these challenging times, whilst we continue our mission to protect the lives of our residents and other animals in need. We thought it would be nice to share with our new followers how Hopefield Animal Sanctuary began, over 35 years ago, and the importance of the work we carry out at the sanctuary.

Hopefield was founded in 1983 by Paula & Ernie Clark, after Paula was devastated by articles in the news about ponies and cobs being abandoned by their owners at Rainham Marshes. At the time, Paula was already committed to raising money for other sanctuaries, but was so disheartened by the stories she was reading in the press – she shared this information with Ernie and together they made a vow to take action and make a change!

After securing some land, Paula & Ernie started to rehabilitate horses with the intention of them being fostered, but after a bad experience with a foster owner not caring for the horse, and even trying to sell it, they decided there and then that Hopefield would be a forever home for all its’ residents.

After years of changing the lives of animals and educating people on animal welfare, Paula sadly lost her battle cancer on the 19th of September 2009. Ernie made a promise to continue the works at Hopefield which he did until he passed away with cancer on September 11th 2011.

Hopefield is now run by Dave Schlaich (CEO) and Lianne Angliss (General Manager) who, just like Paula and Ernie, both share a love and passion for animal welfare, and since starting at Hopefield, found love with each other. We also have an incredibly supportive Board of Trustees.

We care for over 500 animals and will continue to do so, thanks to the support of all of you! We vow to continue giving the same care, love and admiration of animals that Paula and Ernie had when creating this legacy.