A VULNERABLE puppy who was illegally smuggled into the country has found a new home with a Pershore family.
Rosie, an eight-month-old Maltese Terrier, was one of six puppies to be bred in Hungary and illegally imported into the UK at just 15 weeks old.
She endured a traumatic journey of almost 1,500 miles before being intercepted at the border and taken into quarantine kennels, eventually arriving at Dogs Trust Evesham.
But after being adopted by Richard and Helen Pye and their children Jacob and Beth, she was sent to the charity’s six-week Dog School to help her become a well-socialised and confident dog following a tough start to life.
Mr Pye said: “When we first met her, she was a nervous little thing. We found out about the Dog School classes during the adoption process and knew her lack of socialisation and early experiences could have potentially led to problems further down the line.
“We found the whole Dog School experience really worthwhile. Rosie has turned into a much different dog than the timid puppy she was when we adopted her. She’s confident, mixes well with other dogs and settles beautifully when we have visitors.”
Emma Rex, senior coach at Dog School West Midlands, said: “Rosie is an absolutely adorable pup who had a terrible start to life. Puppies who are smuggled into the country don’t have appropriate socialisation to everyday experiences, which can lead to problems later in life.
“Rosie was a little star in Dog School and it’s great we’ve been able to equip her owners with the skills and tools required to set her up to succeed as a family pet.
“Not only has she got the trust and bond with her owners, she’s also much happier and confident in herself.”
Call the centre on 0300 303 0292 for more information on adopting or fostering a dog.
*DOGS Trust Evesham is appealing for volunteers and donations ahead of its annual Summer Fun Day at Stratford Racecourse on Sunday, June 25.
The rehoming centre is looking for volunteers aged 18 and over to assist with stalls, the tombola, refreshments, organising activities and various other jobs.
Suitable prizes for the tombola and grand raffle are also needed.
Shauna Stedman, Dogs Trust Evesham’s supporter relations officer, said: “Volunteers are vital to Dogs Trust. We’re looking for friendly, helpful and hardworking people who love dogs and want to contribute to a rewarding day.”
Call Ms Stedman on 01386 835842 for more information.
