Dogs Learns French at English Rehoming Centre to Prepare for her New Life

Staff at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury are teaching one of their homeless hounds French to help get her ready for her new forever home across the Channel.

Crossbreed Indie is heading off to Luzech in south-west France with new owner Rosemary Jackson, so the dedicated team have been brushing up on their – and her – language skills to make sure the two-year-old has the best chance of settling into her new life.

Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre Manager, Louise Campbell, says:

“There’s never a dull moment here at Dogs Trust! This is certainly one of the most unusual things we’ve ever done to help a dog adjust to their new home, but it absolutely makes sense for Indie to get to grips with the language.

“I think perhaps the staff have found it more challenging than Indie has; she is definitely picking it up easily!”

Indie has proved to be the pawfect student

Rosemary, who retired to France in 2002, spotted Indie whilst visiting her brother, and is delighted with Indie’s progress as the commands she already knows in French include sit, wait and lie down.

“The team really have gone the extra mile and it’s wonderful! I want Indie to join me and my friends at restaurants and cafes, so it will really help if she understands some French commands. She is going to have a great life!” says Rosemary.

Indie was found as a stray as a young pup but now her days will be filled with walks through vineyards and along the River Lot which encircles the town. As well as enjoying trips out, Rosemary hopes she will join her when she teaches English to local people, and even accompany her when she volunteers at an old people’s social centre.

An excited Rosemary said, “Once I know she is happy and settled I’d love her to join me doing as many things as possible! I have had dogs most of my life and sadly two passed away recently so it is a dream come true to find Indie who didn’t have the best start in life. She is absolutely beautiful and full of fun. I hope the French lifestyle suits her!”