With those adorable multi-coloured eyes, it's hard to believe Big Patch was ever neglected by his owners, but sadly the three-year-old dog had a rough start to life. Big Patch spent his days locked in a porch without much food or exercise, and as a result, he hadn't seen much of the world and its beauty.
Then at the beginning of this year, he was taken in by RSPCA's Ashley Heath Animal Centre in Dorset, and his whole life changed. The white husky cross learnt how to trust, love and discovered a passion for exploring. After 10 months in kennels, he is so desperate to find a loving family of his own and become somebody's very best pal.
RSPCA behaviour advisor Hannah Hawkins said: "Poor Patch was signed over into our care when his owner died and the rest of the family was unable to take care of him.
"Sadly he'd been kept locked in a porch without much food or exercise; he was underweight and covered in urine stains.
"We spent a lot of time getting to know him and helping him learn about the big wide world.
"We were so thrilled when he found a new home over the summer but, after just a few hours, his owners returned him because he was too strong and boisterous for them. We were all gutted."
Big Patch is described by carers as a "lovely, clever dog who is very playful" and needs owners who can give him lots of exercise to keep him occupied.
He knows many commands, like 'sit' and 'paw', and he responds well to his name, although he can be a bit strong on the lead when he gets excited.
He loves to play off-lead, likes to sniff and explore his surroundings, and is full of energy.
Hannah added: "Big Patch can be aloof when he first meets people but it doesn’t take long for him to warm up to you and then he soon leans in for a fuss. With his friends, he loves nothing more than a cuddle.
"We'd like to find him an active owner who can keep up with him and ideally it'll be someone with experience with large breeds who understand what it means to take them on.
"We think someone who is patient and will be able to work with him as he transitions into life in a home will be best. With good guidance, Patch will make the most wonderful companion - he just needs some time to adjust after such a tough start."
Patch needs a home without other pets and without children or visiting youngsters.
Ideally he'll have someone around for most of the day before he learns how to be home alone.
The RSPCA's Adoptober campaign is shining a light on rehoming and encouraging more people to consider adopting dogs like Big Patch, instead of shopping.
If you think you could offer Patch a home, visit his rehoming page online or Find A Pet to see all of the animals currently in RSPCA's care.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
