A “gorgeous” one-year-old puppy had staff at a dog shelter feeling “heartbroken” after he was left “unclaimed” at the pound, putting him at risk of being “destroyed”. Thanks to their consistent reputation as “man’s best friend”, dogs remain an incredibly popular choice of pet for many people but sadly, some choose to get one without understanding the significant commitment it requires.
If you decide to welcome a dog into your home, it comes with a responsibility to care and provide for them throughout their entire lives. An increasing number of people are choosing to visit animal shelters and charities to rescue a dog rather than purchase one from a breeder or puppy farm, but unfortunately, not every story has a happy ending.
Some dogs are abandoned or returned to shelters, which can be extremely traumatising and distressing for them. Dogs typically become deeply attached to their owners, so being abandoned can leave them feeling very frightened and upset.
One young dog was left “unclaimed” at the pound, prompting Liverpool rescue organisation Carla Lane Animals in Need to step in and take him to their facility.
On the organisation’s website, they explain: “We have a no destruction policy, meaning that animals stay with us for however long it takes to match them with a suitable home, there is no time limit.
“Many of our dogs are from pounds, where they have served seven days as an unclaimed stray, and are now due to be destroyed.”
A heart-warming appeal has been launched for a “scruffy lurcher cross” who was unclaimed and likely to be put down if not for the intervention of Carla Lane.
The one-year-old pup, described as a “happy, friendly, goofy, gorgeous lad”, is now in need of a permanent home.
The rescuers have named him Freddy Flintstone and have tested his temperament around other dogs, finding him to be “good” and eager to play. He has yet to encounter any cats.
They stated: “Freddy was an unclaimed stray in the pound,” followed by a heartbroken emoji, and continued: “He’s a lovely friendly young boy who is eager to learn, he lives to run and play.”
Carla Lane believes that “friendly boy” Freddy would thrive in an active home where he can enjoy “nice walks and adventures”.
He is also suitable to live with “dog savvy children aged 10 plus” and “another neutered dog who likes to play”.
Freddy’s story was shared on Facebook, attracting comments from fellow animal lovers. One person said: “My word, look at that face – he’s *so* gorgeous, I love a scruffy dog!”
Another commented: “Freddie is absolutely gorgeous. Sharing hoping he finds a home soon, bless him.”
A third said: “Lurchers are such great dogs! Be lost without my boy!”
A fourth observed: “Aw that smiley happy face.”
One simply said: “Gorgeous”, and another added: “Cute!!!!!”
Many Facebook users tagged their friends to draw their attention to Carla Lane’s post.
If you’re interested in adopting Freddy, there’s a questionnaire to fill out.
Dogs often prompt a significant lifestyle change, so it’s crucial to do your homework before getting one. Remember that training is vital, and not all dogs are suitable for first-time owners.
