Heathlands Animal Sanctuary is a registered charity based in Royston, Hertfordshire and is run solely by volunteers dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of unwanted domestic pets. We take in dogs, cats, rabbits and some types of caged birds. Every year we find secure, loving new homes for 300–400 animals, most of whom would otherwise have been destroyed in council pounds when their 7 days are up. We have a policy of non-destruction, which means we will never destroy a healthy, well-balanced animal. We do not have premises—most of our animals are cared for by foster carers in their own homes. By placing our animals in foster homes we get a much better idea of their temperaments, and in particular we can find out if our dogs get along with children, cats and other dogs, as well as introducing some basic training—something many have never had.