We all want to feel loved at Christmas. So spare a thought for the canine residents of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in London. The charity has launched an appeal to find adopted forever homes for its longest-standing residents.
The animal shelter was founded in London in 1860 but has two other centres based at Old Windsor, Berkshire and Brands Hatch, Kent. Battersea cares for an average of 300 dogs and 200 cats across its three centres at any one time.
Since it was founded over 150 years ago, Battersea has rescued, reunited and re-homed over 3.1 million dogs and cats. They believe that every dog and cat deserves the best. That's why they aim to never turn away a furry friend in need. Battersea cares for an average of 300 dogs and 200 cats across its three centres at anyone time.
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There's no limit on how long a dog or can stay but the average stay for a dog at the shelter is 38 days. These doggos have struggled to find new owners because of their age or breed.
Seven-year-old Staffie-cross, Aidan (pictured below), is set to spend his second Christmas at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home in Old Windsor after struggling to find a new home. Aidan, who came into the Berkshire centre after being found as a stray in Woking, is the longest stay dog across all three of Battersea's sites, having been in the world-famous rescue centre's care for over 400 days.
Mistletoe, or Misty to her friends (pictured below), is an energetic and mischievous two-year-old bull lurcher. She loves running around and playing a great game of tug before settling down and having a tickle. Mistletoe will require some ongoing dog socialising to build her confidence.
At eight years and seven months, Magic Mike the Shar-Pei (pictured below) is more of a Victor Meldrew than a Channing Tatum. But despite his grumpy exterior he's a big softie at heart and loves nothing more than a cuddle and belly rub. Due to his grumpy nature he needs a very experienced home who can understand his quirky character but most importantly, accept him for who he is.
Five-year-old Dean (pictured below) is a sensitive type. While Battersea have no information on his past it's thought this ex-racing Greyhound has never lived in a home. But while he will need a lot of time to adjust to his new surroundings he's ready to make the move from the kennels to a home of his own. He loves the company of people but can be worried and reactive around dogs. He's looking for owners who have previously owned Sighthounds and can continue to help him build his confidence.
Two-year-old mongrel Bear (pictured below) is a bouncy boy. This energetic, young lad wants nothing more than a new owner who will run with him and channel his energy into learning new tricks and manners. Bear can struggle with being left on his own so needs owners that are around for a lot of the day. He's vocal around other dogs, which they don't always appreciate so owners that are confident with socialising large breeds are preferable. Bear can be worried around harnesses and veterinary visits so will need patient owners that will help him build his confidence. But he does enjoy fuss in an informal settling.
This sensitive soul in a powerful body, Prince (pictured below), is a six-year-old mongrel. He's very strong on a lead but can find the world scary. His new owners need to be well equipped to deal with these traits: able to hold their own physically, as well as experienced, kind and patient enough to give him the training and confidence-building he needs. Prince can be conflicted around other dogs, which can lead to inappropriate behaviour such as humping but with the right match he is capable of being friendly. His new family need to be confident with reading his body language and prevent him chasing cats and other small wildlife. Once he's comfortable he is a playful and loving companion who enjoys nothing more than curling up with his fluffy toys which he always brings to his human friends.
Sweet staffordshire bull terrier, Lucas (pictured below), is a six-year-old boy who has some insecurities that he'll need help with in his new home. He loves nothing more than some fuss from his humans. But with dogs he's under-socialised and can be a bit full on and rude. He is looking for a home in a quiet location without many other dogs nearby so his owners can focus on training. But this sweetheart is eager to please, a joy to work with and will make a loyal companion to people.
Rosie (pictured below) is a one-and-a-half-year-old mongrel who's smart, willing and above all, exuberant. On occasion, this enthusiasm can be over the top, but she also has a worried, sensitive side - both of these traits come through when she's interacting with other dogs. She can be both too pushy for some, and overwhelmed by others and is vocal on the lead when she sees them. Rosie's new owners must be training enthusiasts who are keen to teach her impulse control and manners as well as building up her confidence around new people and dogs. Rosie is looking for an active household that can keep up with her energy and enthusiasm as she loves learning new things and keeping her mind busy. Once settled, Rosie is a fantastic dog - full of beans, enthusiasm and bundles of love looking for a new home and family to call her own.
For more information please visit here or call 01784494 443 and Follow Battersea on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
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