Dogs Trust Manchester has started the New Year by finding a forever home for its 2017th homeless hound – a puppy who had been brought into the UK illegally.
The four-month-old tiny Yorkshire Terrier, Simon, arrived at the Denton based Rehoming Centre just before Christmas. He had been bred in Poland and illegally transported, enduring a harrowing journey of almost 1,000 miles before being intercepted in Kent and taken into quarantine.
Simon may be small but he has a big personality. Pictured here with Veterinary Nurse Assistant Dawn Leyland.
As part of Dogs Trust’s ongoing investigation into puppy smuggling, the charity provided care and support for the illegally imported pup through his time in quarantine before searching for a loving home for him.
Carol Margieson, Deputy Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, said, “It is definitely the case of new year, new start for this little one.
“As a dog lover it is very hard to understand how anyone can take part in the illegal trade of puppies and see dogs simply as commodities from which to make money. These puppies don’t have appropriate vaccinations, are transported in horrendous conditions, have false documents and have been taken away from their mums far too soon.
“Thankfully, despite being tiny Simon has proved he has a huge zest for life and it’s wonderful that he’s heading off to a kind, loving home.”
Deborah Harmer and Les Lewis from Watersheddings, Oldham, fell in love with Simon after meeting him at the Rehoming Centre.
Four month old yorkshire terrier Simon with his new owners
“We read the information about him and he seemed such a little character, which he definitely is! We wanted a small dog and when we met him we knew we were a perfect match for each other!
“He has had a tough start but he is a bundle of fun and really inquisitive! We’ve bought him a gorgeous comfy bed and blanket, lots of toys and treats and things to keep him occupied as well as an extra, extra small coat!” said a happy Deborah.
Simon is the 2017th dog to be rehomed by Dogs Trust Manchester since opening in October 2014 with Jack Russell Terriers, Border Collies and Lurchers being amongst the most popular to be rehomed.
“Since opening we have had incredible support from the public and the fact that we have started 2017 by rehoming our 2017th dog is wonderful.
“Our wish for this year, however, would of course be that fewer dogs are abandoned or handed over, but whatever happens, whilst they are with us we will give them everything they need whilst they are with us waiting for their forever home,” Carol said.
