A sweet rescue dog who had a tragic start to life is patiently waiting to be adopted after only one application.
Two-year-old crossbreed Dude has packed his bags ready to go off with his new family - but sadly has nowhere to go.
He was rescued from the streets of Romania and lived with his owner until she sadly passed away. When her family couldn't cope with his challenging behaviours around strangers, Dude was taken to the RSPCA.
The RSPCA’s York, Harrogate & District Branch took in the little dog and their behaviourists got to work boosting his confidence around new people.
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Mandy Broadhead, from the centre, said: "Dude is such a sweet little chap but he can be complex.
"He needs really understanding owners who are experienced with dogs and can give him the time - and space - he needs to get used to a change in circumstances.
"He’s such a friendly, affectionate and loving lad once he knows you but he’s incredibly anxious around strangers.
"We’re really hoping to find him a home with a single person who he can spend one-on-one time with and build a strong bond.
"His new home will need to have few visitors as Dude finds it really difficult when new people come into the home.
"He finds it hard to trust new people and it takes him a long time to build a relationship with someone so any new adopter will need to be willing to put in the time to gain his trust.
"We understand this can be a challenge but Dude is certainly worth it and we really hope there’s someone out there who can give him the chance he deserves.
"We’re certainly not ready to give up on him!"
Dude has only had one application in the last 10 months and it didn't work out, as he struggled to bond with the wider family.
Now, RSPCA staff are determined to find him his perfect match.
"Dude is ready for a fresh start and he’s got his bags packed to go off to his new home but sadly he has nowhere to go,” Mandy added.
"It’s heartbreaking that nobody seems to want him."
Dude is looking for an adult-only home without other pets and can be left for short periods of time.
He walks nicely on a lead and is very bright and intelligent so would thrive with training - though he does have a limp due to a historic injury, so this may need medical attention later in life.
If you'd like to give Dude a home, visit his profile online or contact the team at RSPCA York Animal Home on reception@rspca-yorkhome.org.uk or 01904 654949.
Do you have a dog story to tell? Contact nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
