An adorable dog who is expected to lose his eyesight in the next 12 months faces a race against time to find a new owner.
Elf, a two-year-old lurcher, is currently without a home and the RSPCA is desperate to find him a new owner before he goes blind.
It is not clear what is causing the deterioration of his eyes, but vets say Elf only has up to 12 months of sight left.
Based at the RSPCA Devon Branch’s Little Valley Animal Centre in Exeter, Elf has not had much interest from prospective owners and Merryn Walker, deputy centre manager, says she is desperate to find the dog a loving home.
“We are so desperate to rehome him before his sight goes - and think Elf deserves the chance to see his loving new owners, while it is still possible," Merryn said.
“We want him to create a beautiful bond with his new family so he can trust them to be his eyesight when he heartbreakingly no longer has his. Sadly his eyesight is deteriorating rapidly so it really is a race against time.”
Elf, described as "loving" and "very affectionate", is able to live with children should they be old enough to understand his needs.
“He will lean into you for a fuss,” said Merryn. “His favourite things are playing with his toys and zooming around fields. Elf is just so loving, he is very affectionate and people-oriented.
"He makes friends with new people really quickly, travels well, enjoys going out walking with volunteers and loves sofa cuddles.
“Elf will need to be the only pet in the home so he can be truly spoiled. He will walk nicely alongside other dog friends on lead though. He could live with older children who are understanding of his needs.
“We know the perfect home for our special boy is out there - so we'd urge prospective adopters to get in touch, before it is too late.”
If you’re interested in adopting Elf, you can apply online at www.rspca-littlevalley.org.uk/dogs/.
