Big boy Basher seeks home for Christmas

A gentle giant is facing his second Christmas in RSPCA kennels as potential adopters are put off by his size.

Two-year-old mastiff Basher weighs 60kg and measures in at almost 6ft tall when he stands up on his hind legs – making him taller than lots of the staff looking after him!

Basher arrived at The William & Patricia Venton Animal Centre, in Cornwall, in July having spent a number of months at a number of other RSPCA centres looking, but failing, to find a home.

Helen Jones, animal centre manager at RSPCA Cornwall, said: “Basher was rescued in January 2020 so has spent almost two years waiting to find his forever home. Now, this lovely lad is facing his second Christmas in kennels and we’re desperate to make all of his Christmas wishes come true and find him the paw-fect home.

“He is a big boy but is a true gentle giant. He is a lovely, soppy boy who absolutely adores cuddles and doesn’t always remember his size; especially when he’s trying to sit in your lap! He is such a sweet lad with the most wonderful temperament so we think possible adopters are being put off by his sheer size.

“We’re looking for an owner who has experience with large, mastiff types and knows that these dogs can be rather clumsy and messy around the house, and won’t be bothered by all of the slobber! He has a history of chewing sofas so will need someone who can be around for most of the time, initially, to help him settle in and learn that it’s okay being home alone after spending so long in kennels.”

Basher walks nicely on the lead but can be strong and gets over-excited when he sees birds!  The centre’s behaviourist is willing to help new owners with Basher as he settles into his new home to ensure he doesn’t end up back in our care. He would be best-suited to an adult-only home where there are no cats and he’ll be the only dog.

“Basher is such a wonderful lad who will be such a fabulous addition to the right family,” Helen added. “It is important that any potential adopters consider what sort of dog – including their size – will suit their lifestyle.

“While all dogs are individuals, there are some specific considerations that come with owning dogs that are particularly large. It’s important to do your research before taking on any dog, as well as thinking of the day-to-day care that dog will need. For example, if you’re considering adopting a large dog then you’ll need to think about whether you can afford to feed them and whether your car is big enough to transport them to different places.”

You can find out more about Basher online or contact RSPCA Cornwall on [email protected].