An eleven-year old Crossbreed who started life as a stray on the streets of Spain has been overlooked by 25,000 potential adopters since he arrived at Dogs trust Ilfracombe in February.
Despite being closed to walk-in members of the public since the coronavirus pandemic started in March, Dogs Trust Ilfracombe has still been able to responsibly find their dogs the right homes through a virtual matching service – using video-based home checks and socially distanced appointments, either at the rehoming centres, or by taking the dogs out to adopters homes.
Demand for dogs has risen since lockdown began with millions of people searching for dogs to buy or adopt online.
Since he arrived at the rehoming centre, over 25,000 people have visited Diego’s profile since he arrived, and more than 90 dogs have been happily rehomed since February.
Staff say his age, as well as his shyness is possibly putting off potential adopters but as Diego sees his six-month anniversary of his arrival come and go, the staff at the rehoming centre are hoping it won’t be too long before that special someone decides he’s the four-legged friend they are looking for.
Elise Watson, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, says: “Diego is a wonderful lad and the staff adore him. But he has been on our website since he arrived and his profile seen by tens of thousands of people, yet only handful of people have come forward to enquire about him, with none of them officially reserving him.
“He is a stunning lad with so much potential and whilst he does take his time getting to know new people, he’s more ready than ever to fly our nest and into a forever home of his own – particular if you can offer him a cosy bed to snuggle in!”
“We find that many people looking to adopt an older dog are looking for a four-legged friend who doesn’t need much exercise and plods along in their twilight years. But despite Diego’s age, he’s playful, loves an adventure and is still a keen walker. He is quite strong on the lead so needs an owner who can keep up with him! Diego is a firm favourite with all his carers and will be a great addition to the right home.”
Diego needs an adult only home and whilst he’s happy to have doggy walking buddies out and about, he’d prefer to be the only dog in the home. He’d like his new family to visit several times to get to know him.
If you could you change the tale for Diego and give him a forever home, please call 01271 446058 or visit www.dogstrust.org.uk
Dogs Trust rehoming centres are not open for public browsing but you can still make an appointment to adopt or hand over a dog. They have set up new processes which include social distancing measures to help keep staff and visitors safe.
