A Valentine to Remember: Meeting a Spaniel Rescue in London
This Valentine's Day, I had the pleasure of visiting Esher Common to meet Andy Martin, a dedicated volunteer and Trustee at the Spaniel Rescue Foundation, and his own Spaniel rescue Valentine (I know, perfect timing, right?)
The session and talking to Andy gave me a firsthand look at the incredible work being done by this organization to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Spaniels in need.
Saving London's Spaniels: The Story of the Spaniel Rescue Foundation
Not all dogs get the fairytale beginning they deserve, but thanks to the Spaniel Rescue Foundation, many find their way to a happy ending.
This UK-based charity is devoted to rescuing and rehoming spaniels of all kinds—from the bouncy English Springer to the ever-charming Cocker Spaniel.
Some arrive as strays; others are surrendered due to changes in their owners' circumstances. Whatever their past, the foundation ensures their future is full of love, care, and second chances.
Founded with a simple but powerful mission—to give every spaniel in need a fresh start—the organization operates entirely through the kindness of volunteers and donations. There are no fancy offices, no big salaries—just a group of dog lovers who won't rest until every wagging tail finds a forever home.
Pictured: Andy Martin and his rescue Spaniel Valentine.
One of those volunteers is Andy Martin, who has dedicated countless hours to fostering and rehabilitating rescued Spaniels, including the star of this story—Valentine. Like so many others, Valentine came to the foundation in need of help, and thanks to Andy and the team, her story took a beautiful turn.
The Spaniel Rescue Foundation works behind the scenes daily to coordinate foster placements, fund vital vet care, and match these lovable dogs with the perfect families. It's a labour of love fueled by donations and the unwavering dedication of people who believe every spaniel deserves a second chance.
And for dogs like Valentine, that second chance means everything.
Meeting Andy and Valentine
Arriving at Esher Common, I was already amazed and in love with the location and knew it was perfect for dog photography. But when Andy arrived, Valentine truly stole the show.
Bounding toward me with boundless energy, her silky ears flapping with every step, Valentine was clearly eager for her walk. One of the most gorgeous Cocker Spaniels I have ever met, she had the kind of expressive eyes that could melt even the hardest of hearts, and I knew she would photograph beautifully from the moment I saw her. Watching her scout the Common, tail wagging furiously, it was hard to believe that her life looked very different not too long ago.
Pictured: Valentine and her captivating ears.
Valentine's story didn't start with love and safety
“Valentine came in via a kind lady who rescued her from a potential life as a breeding dog. She hadn’t been able to produce live puppies, and the breeder agreed for our contact to take her as she had previously rehomed another of their dogs.
She arrived with a rope and hook around her neck, very smelly, covered in faeces, and had an ear and eye infection.
This girl’s coat was so tightly matted underneath her legs that her skin was tearing as she walked.
Her feet were red and raw, having been kept on concrete that was wet with urine, and her tiny outside pen was open to the elements, so she was always cold and wet from the lack of shelter.
This poor girl had never seen a soft bed or played with a toy, but all that changed when she was rescued.”
As we walked through this stunning environment, Andy shared how the foundation works tirelessly to rescue Spaniels from difficult situations—whether abandoned, surrendered, or in urgent need of medical care.
Every dog, like Valentine, goes through a carefully structured journey: from rescue to rehabilitation, and finally, to a loving forever home.
But before that home is found, there's a meticulous matching process. The foundation doesn't simply hand over a dog to the first willing adopter. Instead, they vet every application carefully, ensuring the dog's temperament, history, and needs align with the right family.
Watching Valentine explore her surroundings, free, loved, and safe, it was clear that rescue is more than saving a life. It's about rewriting a story. And for Valentine, that story now had the happiest of endings.
Pictured: Valentine living her new life surrounded by freedom and love
How You Can Be a Part of Valentine's Story
Valentine's journey from neglect to love wasn't just luck—it was made possible by people who cared enough to take action. The Spaniel Rescue Foundation exists because of the kindness of dog lovers who donate, foster, volunteer, and adopt. Without them, dogs like Valentine might never get their second chance.
If her story has touched your heart, here's how you can make a difference:
Donate – Every pound goes directly to helping Spaniels in need, covering essential veterinary care, food, and shelter. Your donation could be why a dog gets a life-saving operation or a warm bed tonight.
Volunteer – Whether you can help with home checks, transport, fundraising, or admin work, every bit of time you give helps change a dog's future.
Foster – Opening your home, even briefly, gives a rescued spaniel a chance to feel safe and loved while they wait for their forever family. It's one of the most rewarding ways to help.
Adopt – Thinking about adding a furry family member? Choosing adoption means saving a life. Every spaniel deserves a loving home—maybe yours is the one they've been waiting for.
Spread the Word – You don't have to adopt to make a difference. A simple share on social media, telling a friend, or even following their work can help bring more awareness to the incredible work being done.
Want to get involved? Visit Spaniel Rescue Foundation's website to learn more about donating, fostering, or adopting.
Every act of kindness—big or small—helps create more happy endings like Valentine's. Will you be part of the next one?
Pictured: Valentine returning happily to Andy after exploring the common.
A Lasting Impression
As our time at Esher Common ended, I couldn't help but feel inspired by Andy's dedication and Valentine's evident happiness. The Spaniel Rescue Foundation isn't just saving dogs; they're creating new beginnings for these wonderful animals and the families lucky enough to adopt them.
For more information about the Spaniel Rescue Foundation, visit their website at https://www.spanielrescuefoundation.org/ or follow them on social media.
I want to know: Have you had an experience with an animal rescue organization that moved you? Share your story in the comments below.
DOG PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS IN LONDON
Join other London-based pet owners in celebrating their dogs with award-winning photographer Amie Barrron, who immortalises your dog’s unique personality into timeless artwork
