It’s never too late to find a forever home, as, per MyLondon, one pup has recently found out.
Almost five years ago, the RSPCA rescued Lurcher Albie as part of an investigation. He remained in their care as the case continued.
Usually, as a case finishes, the animal will become available for rehoming and find a new family. However, the pandemic hit and this meant that it became more difficult for Albie to find his forever home.
Finally a Forever Home
The RSPCA’s Special Operations Unit rescued the canine after he’d been used in hunting and wildlife crimes in Wales. He’d since been staying at Southridge Animal Centre in the English county of Hertfordshire.
But Londoner Grace Ho found Albie’s profile online. After losing her dog in April, she felt ready to volunteer or rehome a dog. And she didn’t have Lurchers, which are part Greyhound, like Albie in mind at first.
“But when I saw his profile that said no one wanted him it broke my heart,” she said, “I think most people see him as this scary dog because he’s missing part of his nose and has lots of scars and so never even gave him a chance.
“I spoke to the center and asked if I could go and meet him, take him for walks, and see how we got on. I learned all about his quirks and his reactivity towards other dogs and I felt like I could manage that effectively.
“Albie is so lovely. He’s a real gentle soul with humans, and smiles. There’s obviously a lot to work on but I know I can handle it. And he’s already made some good progress.”
Adoption During COVID-19
Anna White, manager of the shelter, said: “Sadly, Albie was a victim of COVID. He became available for rehoming just before the country was plunged into lockdown and that meant we had to close our doors to the public to adhere to the restrictions.”
“If someone had come in looking for a dog in person they’d be sure to fall in love with him as he’s such a lovely boy when you meet him.
“But we had to rely on advertising our animals online and, sadly, we found he was constantly overlooked and we had barely any inquiries about him.”
Fortunately, Albie is settling in well after finding a forever home with Grace last month. He’s still reactive with other dogs and wears a muzzle outside, but it’s something that Grace is working on. And he’s already made a couple of Greyhound friends…
