An adorable shaggy dog who spent more than 500 days in a shelter has found a loving new owner just in time for Christmas.
Alfred, a three-year-old lurcher, has spent more than a third of his life in the care of Dogs Trust in Glasgow, Scotland, after finding it hard to find people who could cope with his energetic nature.
Described as sometimes “over the top”, Alfred’s antics were sadly too much for two previous owners but now a third has come forward to give him a forever home.
STV reports Dogs Trust staff had been working closely with the energetic canine to help him calm his behaviour and build confidence when travelling by car.
But despite learning new tricks, Alfred had become one of the “underdogs” at the centre, a term used for animals who have spent more than six months looking for a new home.
But now, after clocking up a mammoth stay at the shelter, Alfred has found an owner just as enthusiastic as he is.
Alan Scott, from Glasgow, was looking for a sighthound and was drawn to Alfred. He told STV: “I’ve waited my whole life for a dog like Alfred, and he was worth the wait. He’s my dream dog.
“He’s been impeccable since the day he came home, and I’m both proud and pleased by his progress. Sometimes, I look after other dogs who Alfred is happy to share his home with.
“He is also very sociable and loves meeting people when out on his walks. Time when he is left alone has been built up gradually with no issues and I can see on my pet camera he is quite content alone, chilling on the sofa.”
“Alfred has made such a positive difference to my life, it’s fair to say I am totally smitten with him. He has been at home with me now for six months, and our first Christmas together will be very special.”
Sandra Downie, manager at Dogs Trust Glasgow, said: “After spending over 500 days and last Christmas in our care, we are all delighted Alfred has found his happy place where he is so loved.
“It is what our job is all about, helping every dog in our care find the right home for them and we can’t imagine a better match for Alfred. All of our dogs deserve a happy place – for Christmas, and for life.”
