This heartbroken dog can’t bear to spend another Christmas in kennels and urgently needs a home

This pup survived the heartbreak of his owner leaving him behind due to poor health and a Christmas in lonely kennels. But he so would like to become a part of a loving household before the holiday countdown begins, and has so much canine wisdom and love to give in return.

Left behind by the owner

A senior dog Rascal arrived at Dogs Trust Manchester in November 2021 after his owner was no longer able to care for him due to poor health. The pup has been a resident in a shelter for almost a year. The staff’s hearts break at the thought that he’ll have to spend another Christmas in the kennels, unwanted.

The ten-year-old crossbreed is ready to find a comfy spot on a cosy sofa where he can rest his old paws.

An active ‘oldie’

But despite his age, the dog lives up to his name. Rascal is a fun-loving old gent who still likes to be active, enjoys a game of fetch, and adores splashing around in paddling pools on warm days.

This pooch feels at home in the great outdoors, especially on quiet walks away from other dogs. He doesn’t like to share his sights and sounds.

A spokeswoman for Dogs Trust Manchester said:

He is very friendly with people and likes to say hello to everyone he meets. He has recently been enjoying spending time in the offices at the rehoming centre which is helping to boost morale.

In search of an ideal home

Rascal will make a great pet for a responsible and caring owner, but his ideal home has to meet some criteria to meet.

The pup needs to be the only dog in the house and can live with children not younger than 11 years old for the pup’s and the family’s best.

He’d also love a private garden so he can run around off-lead and play with his toys.

Senior dogs are often underestimated. They become grateful and loyal companions to their special humans. They are also known for being more affectionate.

Dogs Trust is the largest dog welfare charity in the United Kingdom, caring for over 15,000 animals each year with a primary objective to protect them from maltreatment, cruelty and suffering. Visit their website if you think Rascal would be a great fit for you, to find out more about other pets looking for forever homes, or to support the charity’s work.

Sources used:

- Manchester Evening News: 'Elderly dog whose owner fell ill desperate for home to avoid second Christmas in kennels'

- Dogs Trust UK

Read more:

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⋙ This senior dog was dumped in a shelter to die but instead found her 'fountain of youth'

⋙ A senior dog who was missing for two months was accidentally found in a 22-mile cave