As Storm Desmond lashed Greater Manchester earlier this month, a dog lover from flood stricken Cumbria wasn’t put off making a 250 mile round trip to rescue an elderly homeless hound with arthritis who had been waiting months for a new home.
Nine-year-old Rudy was in need of a forever home and despite the elements being against them, he has found it with Claire Brewer
Nine-year-old Rudy found himself at Dogs Trust Manchester after his family could no longer give him the care and attention he needed. With arthritis causing him problems in his hips and spine, the team were worried he’d be overlooked and were desperate to find him the loving home and extra comfy sofa he deserves before Christmas.
Luckily, Claire Brewer from Askam-in-Furness spotted the gentle giant on the Dogs Trust website and travelled to Manchester to meet him. She then braved Storm Desmond to take him home.
Claire says: “I had to postpone my first visit to meet him because of the weather and then it was looking like I wouldn’t be able to collect him as roads all around were being closed because of flooding, including the A590 which I use to travel the 30 miles to the M6. Luckily it reopened on the Tuesday and although I was surrounded by flooded fields it was safe enough to travel.”
Claire (right) at Dogs Trust Manchester getting ready to take Rudy home
Claire and her husband have adopted 13 rescue dogs over the last 37 years, including four German Shepherds. Sadly Claire’s husband died last year and then just a couple of weeks ago her dog, Bailey, a German Shepherd Cross, died at the age of 13.
“The house isn’t a home without a dog,” says Claire. “I knew I wanted an older German Shepherd who would enjoy lovely, gentle walks and lots of time relaxing at home. Just like me! I couldn’t believe it when I saw Rudy. We are a match made in heaven and hopefully I’ll be able to give him everything he needs and deserves.”
Claire thinks she and Rudy are a match made in heaven 🙂
Having safely arrived home after more than two hours on the road, Rudy is getting used to his new surroundings.
Claire says: “We were really lucky to not have any problems getting home as the A590 has been partially closed again since! He is doing really well and I get greeted by a gorgeous wagging tail every morning. He loves his walks; we take it very slowly and have tried to get out when it’s not raining and blowing a gale! He’s a truly lovely dog.”
To find out more about dogs looking for love, please go to www.dogstrust.org.uk
