A DOG who has spent more than half his life in kennels has finally found his forever home.

Copper, a husky and German shepherd cross breed, arrived at the RSPCA Patcham Animal Centre in Brighton in October last year and saw every dog in the kennels find a new owner before him.

But after a campaign led by the animal charity, the 19-month-old pooch has been taken in by Jane Wells, who lives in Hurstpierpoint.

The Argus: Copper is settling into his new life in the countrysideCopper is settling into his new life in the countryside

Jane, who has now adopted three dogs from the RSPCA, said Copper has been “wonderful” since joining her family on Saturday and he is already enjoying his new life in the countryside.

She told The Argus: “He’s my third challenge from the RSPCA and I think that’s why they were encouraging me to go and see him.

“I think they had been struggling to find the right home for him so hopefully it will all work out fine and this will be permanent.

The Argus: Jane said Copper his "very intelligent" and his training is going wellJane said Copper his "very intelligent" and his training is going well

“They know that once I’ve taken a dog it tends to stay with me for life so I’m not going to give up on him, even if he has a few moments.

“I’m sure he’ll be fine and he’s going to be a great dog.”

When Copper first arrived at the RSPCA he was very bouncy and had a lot of energy, especially when he was on his lead.

The Argus: Copper spent more than half of his life RSPCA PatchamCopper spent more than half of his life RSPCA Patcham

However, after training from the volunteers and staff at the centre, his behaviour improved, and Jane said she has been impressed by his ability to learn.

She said: “He’s very intelligent, which is great for me with training.

“Of course, intelligence can be challenging if it’s not channelled correctly so I can understand why he needed an experienced home.

“But hopefully I’m experienced enough for him and we’re getting on so well.”

Jenny Eden, manager at the RSPCA in Patcham, said the whole team was “delighted” that he had found a home, but she added that he will be “sorely missed”.

She said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that, after waiting patiently for so long and thanks to the dedication of our staff and volunteers, we were able to match Copper to the right home.

“We wish him all the very best in his new home and we hope he and Jane enjoy many happy years together.”

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