AN ELDERLY dog that lost its owner to coronavirus is now loving life as a pampered pet after being rehomed.
Dylan, a 12-year-old Jack Russell terrier, was “shattered” by the death of his owner and was “very shut down” when he arrived at the Shoreham Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in January.
Adel Burnett, centre manager, said that despite the “best efforts” of the staff and volunteers, the poor pooch was unable to adjust to kennel life.
But fortunately, after just 25 days spent in the rehoming centre, Dylan was adopted by Alison and Leslie Gibbons from Eastbourne.
The couple renamed him Bob Dylan and said he has taken to being named after a musical legend.
Alison said: “He’s now been living with us for a month, and he’s settled really well. He’s a lovely dog.
“We had an elderly Jack Russell before who we adopted from Dogs Trust back in 2013 when he was also 12 years old. Cedric died two years ago and we missed him so much that we decided we wanted a bit of a gap to honour his memory.
Dylan was overweight when he arrived at the Dogs Trust, but is now enjoying a much more active lifestyle with his new owners.
Alison said: “It’s lovely going out for long walks with Bob Dylan.
"He still has so much energy. We go four miles and he’s still go, go, go.
"He’s a really sharp little chap and knows where his home is.
“He’s very wilful and has a lot of spirit and strength of character, loves his food and being with you, preferably sitting on your knee.”
Dogs Trust rehoming centres across the country have already taken in a number of dogs during the pandemic.
In particular, elderly dogs and those with medical issues have been handed into its care due to owners who are facing financial hardships, and owners who have been hospitalised or have passed away from Covid-19.
Dogs Trust Shoreham Manager Adel said: “We know that the pandemic, and its economic repercussions, is having devastating effects on some people’s lives and their ability to care for their pets.
“Unfortunately, we believe the worst is yet to come and we will do all we can to help those dogs and owners in need of our support.”
If you are struggling and need advice or support to give up your dog, would like to know more about how Dogs Trust is helping keep dogs and owners together or if you would like to donate to Dogs Trust,visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/changethetale
If you would like to volunteer to become a foster carer, email HfHShoreham@dogstrust.org.uk
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