The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that approximately 6.5 million companion animals find themselves in a shelter in the United States every year, 3.2 million of which are adopted. One of the easiest ways to make a difference and help these loving animals find their forever home is to share their story.
This is the story of Blue, a young lurcher/greyhound that once had a loving caring home. Unfortunately, life sometimes throws a serious wrench in our plans, and in May 2017 his owner was no longer capable of caring for him and he was surrendered to the RSPCA. This high-energy pup quickly won over everyone he met, and it wasn’t long before a family opened their hearts and their home.
Now, as anyone working in rescue can tell you, even the best intentions aren’t always enough when it comes to rehoming an animal. The family found themselves feeling overwhelmed by Blue’s energy and strength, and Blue returned to the shelter to continue searching for that perfect match. Those who had fallen in love with Blue the first time around were disappointed to see him back, but they knew that his forever home was out there somewhere. This was back in November and ‘Beautiful Blue’ as they call him has been waiting for his perfect family ever since.
The RSPCA website describes Blue as a “super affectionate lad who loves nothing more than leaning against you getting lots of fuss… he is a real people dog! Chasing a ball in our enclosed field is one of Blues favourite things to do and seeing him gallop along is so enjoyable to watch.”
His energy will come as no surprise to anyone familiar with the Lurcher breed. A cross between a Greyhound and a hunting breed such a terrier, lurchers are highly trainable balls of energy, armed with a high level of intelligence and an unwavering determination. At the same time, they are calm, loving and affectionate, making them great family dogs.
“If you want a dog to go and sit and have a cuddle with, all the staff here go and sit with Blue. He is a real favourite for all of us – we absolutely adore him and just want to see him settle into a long-term home,” explained the center manager at the RSPCA’s Suffolk East and Ipswich branch, Zoe Barrett. “I am a trained photographer and have taken pictures of Blue to try to help him find a home; he has been the cover photo on our Facebook page for months and has been advertised in our local media, but still no one comes forward. We’ve tried to enlist the help of other animal centers so new people can see Blue, but everywhere is so full that hasn’t worked either.”
Now you may be wondering, what’s the catch? What is it that makes this so challenging for the RSPCA to find a loving home for this pup? While many pets get along great with others, Blue is looking for a home where he can be an only pet. However, employees at the RSPCA have taken steps to help manage this side of his personality. His bio on the RSPCA website states, “A clinical behaviourist observed Blue near other dogs in his previous home and a behaviour modification programme has been written up, which will help his new owners manage him around other dogs.”
If you are looking for a loving dog, and you have the energy to keep up with this boy, look no further! He is seeking a home in a more rural location, offering him plenty of space to run around and play. However, the RSPCA also requests that his new yard have a fence in order to ensure his safety. For more information, contact the RSPCA Suffolk East and Ipswich Branch.
Feature Image Source: RSPCA Suffolk East and Ipswich | Facebook