After informally helping Spinoni in need over several years, we formalised our rescue endeavours by founding this charity to help Spinoni and Spinone crosses, in need of help overseas. Most rescues come from Italy, the home of our beloved breed.
The Animal Welfare bill proposes a total ban on import of docked dogs, which will effectively end SOFA. As it stands, rescue dogs are explicitly NOT exempted. In Italy, almost every Spinone is a working dog, docked for that reason, never for fashion. When these dogs are no longer useful, they often face neglect or death. SOFA gives them a second chance.
We bring a small number of adult, health-tested dogs to the UK — where they’re cherished family members, not hunting tools. We don’t take homes from UK dogs, we fill a unique welfare gap.
- We are contacting the Bill’s supporters, MPs, and DEFRA to explain why an exemption is needed for rescue dogs. You can help! Information for writing to MPs about SOFA is here.
- We are contacting similar organisations for support, and associations and experts to prove that these dogs are rescued for welfare reasons, not docked for fashion, and that we are not a “loophole” for profiteering.
- We’re preparing clear information to share with lawmakers, showing them the positive work of SOFA and asking for a seat at the table in discussing an exemption. Read our case here
- Our beautiful Spinoni from Italy may have lost their tails, but they shouldn’t lose their chance of rescue. We are going to need help to Save SOFA , so the Animal Welfare Bill works for rescue dogs too!
THANK YOU <3
Thinking of adopting?
When considering whether to adopt a Spinone from abroad, there’s a lot to think about – these pages are essential reading for anyone thinking of adoption with SOFA.
A good place to begin is our information for those considering adoption here. You can also read how the adoption process works, and we have a Q & A here for frequently asked questions.
We also have advice for preparing for your Spinone’s homecoming, arrival day and for the first weeks and beyond.
The best way to hear of new rescues seeking homes is to ‘like’ our Facebook page. If we have available dogs, they will always be at the top of the page.
https://www.facebook.com/Spinone.SOFA/
Make sure you are getting notifications – instructions here.
We highly recommend you join our Facebook group, Spinone Adopters and Friends, where you will find lots of interesting first-hand experience and discussion.
Funds are being raised and used constantly via donation, charity auction and more and we are thankful for the enormous generosity of our supporters. More about fundraising and how to help here.