It was love at first sight when Dogs Trust volunteer Sally Halstead spotted rescue dog Billy on a blustery April day last year.
But eleven months on, Sally is selflessly hoping that it won‘t be long before she sees Billy scamper out of the doors of Dogs Trust Leeds and finally head off into the sunset with a forever love of his own.
Sally, who has been volunteering at the York Road centre since retiring in 2018, says some dogs steal your heart, and eleven-year-old Patterdale Terrier, Billy, is certainly one of them.
She says: “Billy is adorable! He is cheeky, independent and full of energy, so a typical Terrier. He is super-friendly and I defy anyone who he introduces himself to, to not feel all is well with the world as he just brings joy wherever he goes. It is a mystery to me why he doesn’t get people enquiring about him. Maybe it is his age, but believe me, he has a love of life that rivals any younger dog!
“I volunteer at the centre three times a week and we go for offsite walks. He gets very excited when he sees me, which is lovely. We take in the sights and sounds and sometimes even enjoy a picnic together! We always return with a spring in our step as you just can’t not be happy when you’re with Billy. When I’m with him there’s nowhere I’d rather be, and I’d like to think he feels the same!”
Billy is looking for a home with a family who can match his zest for life and are happy to head out for long walks to keep him fulfilled mentally and physically. He would love his new family to be around all the time, particularly whilst he settles in, as he doesn’t like to be left home alone and he would happily live with children aged 16 and over.
Sally adds: “Billy offers everything anyone could want from a four-legged friend. Once he’s had a walk he loves nothing more than snuggling on the sofa and is really affectionate. What more could you ask for?
“I am very attached to Billy and we have a very special bond, but my wish is for him to find the home he deserves. It will be very emotional when I have to say goodbye, but Billy will stay in my heart forever. He is unforgettable and I feel privileged to be his special someone until he finds a lifelong love of his own.”
Billy would like to be the only pet in his forever home but if introduced slowly to canine companions he is happy to have walking buddies. He would like his home to have a garden where he can play with his family and relax. As an older boy Billy has some medical needs which the team will discuss with potential adopters.
If Billy could be the one for you this Valentine’s Day, please go to www.dogstrust.org.uk to find out more about him and all the other dogs patiently waiting to find their ideal partner.
