Dogs in Co. Down

Russell sprout

WELL… WHERE DO WE EVEN START WITH THIS BOY? Everyone meet Russell — or, as he’s very fondly known by the team, Russell Sprout. And there isn’t one of us who doesn’t love him. Russell once belonged to a family. When they moved back to their home country, he was simply put out onto the streets and left behind. By the time he reached us, he was in an awful state. thin, filthy dirty, nails terribly overgrown and teeth so rotten that the smell was something we had never experienced before. Looking at his teeth, you could have believed he was twenty. In reality, we think this little Jack Russell is probably around 8–9 years old. Russell has since had every single tooth removed — and his little tongue now permanently hangs out of the side of his mouth. Somehow it just makes him even more lovable. And what gets us most about Russell? He asks for absolutely nothing. Give him his little 15–20 minute walk each day and he’s delighted. He loves pottering around, occasionally breaking into the funniest little show-pony jaunt, reminding everyone that underneath everything he’s been through, there’s still a proper little Jack Russell in there. Once he knows you, he’s affectionate, gentle and incredibly sweet. He doesn’t need big adventures or a busy life. He just needs someone to say, “Come on, Russell Sprout. You’re coming home.” Russell could live with children aged 12+ who understand and appreciate an older dog. He was thrown away when his family no longer needed him. We’d really love the rest of his story to be about someone who could never imagine leaving him behind.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Molly

MEET LITTLE MOLLY Molly is only 11 months old, but sometimes when you look at her little worried face, she seems much older. She is a nervous, gentle little girl who probably hasn’t had the easiest start. We know she was very much loved by her previous family, but sadly we don’t feel she always received the care she needed. And yet there isn’t an ounce of badness in her. Molly is soft, sweet and incredibly loving. She adores everyone she meets and desperately wants to trust that everything is going to be okay. Most of the time you see that slightly worried little face… and then something lovely happens. Her ears suddenly perk up, she grabs a toy and, just for a while, the baby she still is comes shining through. Those moments make everything worthwhile. Molly needs someone patient and kind who will show her that life doesn’t have to be scary. That food will always come, hands will always be gentle and home really can mean forever. She could share her home with a suitable male dog and is looking for: A secure garden Someone home for a good part of the day Children aged 12+ Plenty of patience, reassurance and love She’s only 11 months old. Molly has her whole life ahead of her. We just need someone to show her how wonderful that life can be.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Ruby Roo

MEET RUBY — SHE’S READY FOR THE QUIET LIFE At 11 years old, Ruby isn’t asking for adventures or excitement. She’s simply looking for somewhere soft to land. Ruby arrived with us a frightened, cross little Shih Tzu who didn’t want much to do with anybody. She was scared of everything and everyone and, although we know very little about her past, one thing was obvious — she was missing the life and the person she had known. It was heartbreaking to watch. But week by week, Ruby began to realise she was safe. And what a transformation. The little girl who didn’t want anyone near her now happily gets lifted up for cuddles and absolutely adores attention. She has shown us the sweetest, most affectionate side of herself, and she really is an absolute darling. Ruby loves her little 15-minute walks twice a day and is beautiful on the lead. But her favourite part of the day? Curling up beside her human when everything is quiet. We’d love to find Ruby a calm, peaceful retirement home with no young children, where life can simply be easy from now on. She is okay with other dogs and could potentially learn to live alongside a cat. She doesn’t need much. A couple of little walks. A warm bed. A lap to cuddle into. And someone she can belong to again. At 11 years old, Ruby deserves to know that wherever she goes next… she never has to leave again.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Diego

DIEGO IS WAITING FOR HIS SOMEONE There’s no denying that Diego is a stunning boy. With that fluffy coat and gorgeous wee face, he’s the kind of dog people notice. But we really hope someone falls in love with who Diego is, not just what he looks like. Because underneath all that fluff is the loveliest wee soul. Diego is a gorgeous French Bulldog with a wonderful nature. He gets on really well with other dogs, is lovely to walk on the lead and has so much love and fun to bring to the right home. He can be a little mouthy when he’s playing — there is absolutely no badness in him, he just gets carried away having fun! For that reason, we’re looking for a home with children aged 12+. Like many Frenchies, Diego also has a sensitive tummy. He needs a specific diet and, when he finds a food that suits him, it’s important that his new family keeps him on the same brand. A small commitment for the person who gets to call this beautiful boy theirs. Diego doesn’t need anything extraordinary. He needs someone who will see beyond the fluffy coat, understand his little quirks and promise that, when they choose him, they’re choosing him for life. He’ll give you friendship, laughs, lovely walks and more love than you could ever ask for in return. Somewhere out there is the person Diego has been waiting for. We just need to help them find each other. •

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Grace

MEET GRACE Sometimes a name just fits a dog perfectly — and Grace couldn’t be more aptly named. Grace is a beautiful three-year-old Eastern European Shepherd, one of seven Shepherds who recently arrived into our care. She’s a big girl, but underneath that impressive exterior is quite simply the gentlest soul. Grace is loving and affectionate, but she is also incredibly shy and timid. She might not be the dog who pushes her way to the front to say hello. She may hang back and quietly watch while everyone else gets the attention — but give her a little time and you’ll discover just how special she really is. She’s such a lovely, lovely girl. Because of Grace’s background and the life she has known, finding the right environment for her is really important. Grace has always lived as part of a pack, and because of this, another suitable dog in her new home is essential. She could never be an only dog. She needs that canine companionship for reassurance, confidence and simply because being alongside other dogs is the life she understands. She also needs a home with plenty of secure outdoor space where she can run, play and enjoy herself. A secure garden or outdoor area is absolutely vital for her. 3 years old Eastern European Shepherd Loving, affectionate and incredibly gentle Shy and timid initially Must live with another suitable dog Secure outdoor space is essential Children 12+ Large-breed experience preferred A patient, understanding family who will allow her to settle at her own pace Grace isn’t necessarily going to be the one who comes forward first when you meet her. But sometimes it’s worth looking past the dog at the front and noticing the quiet one waiting behind. Because that quiet girl might just turn out to be something incredibly special. And Grace really, really is. Almost Home Animal Rescue NI

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Ember

MEET EMBER Sometimes the dogs who ask the least of you end up giving you the most. Ember is around nine months old, a beautiful black Lab crossbreed with the gentlest little soul. She was born with a slight difference in one of her back legs. She has been X-rayed and thoroughly checked, and thankfully it causes her no harm and no surgery is required. To Ember, it’s simply part of who she is. And what a lovely little dog she is. Ember is gentle, shy and incredibly mild-mannered. She isn’t the puppy who will necessarily run straight into your arms on the first meeting. She needs someone willing to give her time, patience and reassurance while she learns that she is safe, she is loved, and she doesn’t have to be afraid. We’ve already watched her blossom so much in our care, and now we know she’s ready for the next part of her journey — home. For Ember, we feel another friendly, confident dog in the home is really important. A canine companion who can show her the ropes, help build her confidence and teach her how wonderful being a normal, carefree puppy can be. Around 9 months old Lab crossbreed Gentle, shy and sweet-natured Another friendly dog in the home is important Children 14+ who understand when a nervous dog needs time and space A patient, understanding home willing to let her progress at her own pace Ember may not be your straightforward, ready-to-rock-and-roll dog. There may be little hurdles. There will be things she’ll need help understanding. And you’ll need to celebrate the tiny victories that other dog owners might never even notice. But we truly believe that the love this little girl will eventually give you will outweigh every bit of work it takes to help her find her feet. She doesn’t need someone to feel sorry for her. She just needs someone to believe in her. Could you be Ember’s safe place? Almost Home Animal Rescue NI

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Dutch

from£185adoption fee

Meet our handsome boy Dutch! Dutch is a lovely German Shepherd, estimated to be around 3 years old, who came into our care as an injured stray in February. After a thorough veterinary examination, Dutch was diagnosed with cruciate ligament damage in his right knee and has since underwent corrective surgery. Since then, Dutch has made great progress with his recovery. He has settled in well to kennel life and continues to build up his strength and fitness each day with the support of our animal care team. Dutch is an incredibly friendly and affectionate boy who absolutely loves people. He has become a firm favourite with our team, enjoying nothing more than saying hello to staff and volunteers and meeting people when he is out on his walks! Dutch is still gradually building up his exercise levels and thoroughly enjoys getting out for his walks. He loves to sniff and explore his surroundings and take in all the interesting sights and smells. He also enjoys enrichment activities, with frozen kongs and food-based puzzles being his favourite! Dutch would be best suited to a home with owners who have experience of German Shepherds or similar breeds, where his new family will understand his ongoing needs following surgery. This will include ongoing joint supplements and possible pain relief to help keep him comfortable. While he is recovering very well, it will be important that his exercise continues to be managed appropriately and that he is not overexerted. Dutch could live with sensible older teenagers who are confident around large dogs. He is not suitable to live with cats. He would prefer to be the only dog in the home.

Listed byUlster Society for the Prevention Cruelty to Animals (USPCA)

4.5173 Google reviews

Luna

£80adoption fee

Luna is currently being assessed

Listed byNorthern Ireland Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue (NISBTR)

Sadie

Meet Sadie Sadie is a beautiful 10-year-old American Bulldog and, honestly, she is an absolute gem. She is a well-behaved, settled girl who has that lovely balance of being calm and content while still enjoying life. She loves her walks, enjoys getting out and about, and is always happy to be part of whatever is happening. Sadie gets on well with most other dogs and could happily share her home with a canine companion. But she would also be perfectly content as an only dog, where she can steal the limelight and be the centre of her family’s world! Cats are a definite no for Sadie, so she cannot be rehomed with cats. She has been fantastic with everyone she has met, but given that she is a slightly older girl, we feel children 8+ would be the best fit for her. Sadie is simply a lovely, happy, settled girl who deserves a wonderful home for her next chapter. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who is happy to enjoy a good walk, a bit of adventure and then settle down with her family, Sadie could be your girl.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Ben

Meet Ben Say hello to Ben, our curious, fun-loving Beagle who is great craic! Ben was quite nervous when he first arrived and it took him a week or two to settle, but just look at him now! He has come on so much, and we are seeing more and more of his lovely personality every day. He can still have a shy side, especially with new people, but once Ben gets to know you, he loves you with all his heart. He absolutely adores other dogs and would happily share his home with canine friends. He’s a typical Beagle through and through — he loves his walks, loves having his nose to the ground sniffing out all the good stuff, and enjoys plenty of playtime. But after all that excitement, there’s nothing Ben loves more than snuggling down in his duvet at the end of the day. Ben is looking for a home with: Other dogs are welcome Children 8+ A family who will give him a little time and patience while he gets to know them Ben is such a lovely boy, and once he trusts you, you’ve got a little Beagle who will adore you right back.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Albie

Meet Albie Albie is a little Poodle cross, around 6–7 years old, and this wee man has really stolen our hearts. Albie is a quiet little soul. Once he gets to know you, he is loving and affectionate, but he needs time, patience and someone who understands that trust doesn’t happen overnight. Albie was used on a commercial breeding farm, and sadly he never had the life he should have had. He missed out on so much of what every dog deserves. But over the last couple of weeks, we have watched this little man begin to flourish. His coat has been shaved, he has been neutered, had a much-needed dental, and he also arrived with entropion, a painful condition affecting the eyelids. We have had this surgically treated, and he is now feeling so much more comfortable. And slowly, we are seeing Albie emerge. He is looking for a quiet, settled home with someone who will give him the time and space he needs to find his feet. A really secure garden is essential. Another friendly dog in the home is vital for Albie. Children must be 14+ and able to understand that Albie needs patience and space. He may take a little while to come around, but once he does, we know there is so much love waiting to come out of this little dog. Albie has missed out on so much in his life. Now we want to find him the home where he can finally learn just how wonderful life can be. If you think you could offer Albie the quiet, patient and loving home he deserves, please get in touch with Almost Home Animal Rescue NI.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Fable

£170adoption fee

Some dogs need a little more time to find their confidence. Some need someone to believe in them. And some, like our beautiful Fable, simply need the chance to discover what kindness really feels like. Fable is a Staffie cross who has had a difficult start in life and, because of the circumstances surrounding her case, she isn’t able to be shown publicly at this time. But behind the scenes, Fable has been quietly learning that the world isn’t such a scary place. She has been living with a wonderful foster family who have been helping her experience all the things she may not have had before -gentle voices, patience, comfort, routine and, most importantly, kindness. Fable is a very timid and shy girl. She doesn’t rush up to people or immediately show you her personality. She needs time to trust, and she’ll need someone who understands that her journey will be about small steps rather than big leaps. She can be unsure around men, although she is currently living alongside a male and is gradually learning that they can be safe too. Underneath that nervousness is a girl who wants a home of her own. She wants people to call her family. She wants a quiet, safe place where she can continue learning that she is loved and that she doesn’t have to be afraid. Fable will need: • A patient, understanding family • A calm home where she can settle at her own pace • Someone willing to continue building her confidence • Plenty of love, routine and reassurance • An understanding that trust takes time Fable will need someone who is willing to take things slowly and let her confidence grow, but for the right person, watching her blossom will be incredibly special.

Listed byAssisi

4.6518 Google reviews

Bruce Lee

MEET BRUCE LEE At 6–7 years old, Bruce is a lovely, friendly and settled Collie boy who has all the wonderful qualities you’d expect from a Collie — but with the volume turned down just a little! He’s past the crazy young Collie stage and is a much more chilled-out, easy-going boy who is simply a pleasure to have around. Bruce loves his walks and is learning so quickly how to walk nicely on the lead. He has excellent recall, and he absolutely adores being in the house. In fact, give Bryce a comfy spot indoors and some company, and he is one very happy boy. He gets on brilliantly with other dogs and really has no issues at all. He’s friendly, affectionate and just an all-round lovely boy. More than anything, Bruce wants what every dog deserves — a family of his very own. He’s waited long enough for someone to choose him, and we would love to see this gorgeous boy settled into a loving forever home where he can enjoy his walks, his home comforts and, most importantly, being part of a family. Bryce is ready. He just needs someone to choose him. Please contact Almost Home Animal Rescue NI if you think Bruce could be the boy for you.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Bonnie

MEET BONNIE Bonnie is a gorgeous 11-month-old Springer x Collie, and what a super girl she is! Bonnie is a bouncy, happy and healthy young girl who absolutely loves life. She is fantastic with other dogs, loves children and is great with everyone she meets. She really is just a lovely, friendly girl with a huge personality. She loves her walks and, like many young, intelligent working-breed crosses, she needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep her busy little brain occupied! Bonnie originally found herself at Almost Home because she could become destructive when she wasn’t getting the right amount of exercise and stimulation. But since arriving with us, we’ve discovered just how clever and adaptable she is. With plenty of enrichment, mental stimulation, interaction and simply being given the opportunity to settle, she has come on fantastically. She is such a super, super girl and we absolutely adore her. Bonnie is now looking for a forever family who will give her the exercise, enrichment, companionship and love she needs to thrive. In return, you’re getting an affectionate, fun-loving, wonderfully happy girl who will make a fantastic companion. Could Bonnie be the girl you’ve been waiting for? Please contact Almost Home Animal Rescue NI if you think you could offer Bonnie her forever home.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Rosie

What can we say about Rosie, a French bull dog x staffy, she’s young, full of fun and an absolute sweetheart Loves dogs, loves people, infact just loves life. why not come meet her?

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Wren

Meet Ren Ren is a beautiful little Cocker Spaniel, around 4–5 years old, who simply hasn’t had an easy start in life. This sweet girl is incredibly gentle and has absolutely no badness in her. When she first came to us, she was frightened of her own shadow. She wouldn’t let us touch or lift her, but with time, patience, and kindness, she’s come such a long way. We can now stroke her, pick her up, and watch her confidence grow every day. Ren is now ready to find a home of her own, and we truly believe that’s where she’ll continue to flourish. Ren’s ideal home: ● Another confident dog is essential – we will not consider homes without another dog, as having a canine companion is vital for her confidence and wellbeing. ● Children aged 12+ who are dog-savvy and understand the importance of giving her space. ● A quiet home with very little coming and going. ● A secure garden is a must. Ren will be a little bit of a project, but she’ll repay your patience with something truly special. Watching this lovely girl learn to trust and enjoy life will be one of the most rewarding journeys you could take.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Romulous

Meet Romulus Romulus is a gorgeous one-year-old German Shepherd cross with a heart as big as his paws! This handsome boy is the definition of a big cuddly bear. He is affectionate, playful and full of personality, and once he gets to know you, he’ll happily be your shadow and your very best friend. Romulus is the kind of dog who wants to be involved in everything and, if he had his way, would probably spend his days bouncing around, playing and then climbing onto your lap for a cuddle! Romulus was born with elbow dysplasia, a genetic condition affecting his elbow joint. Importantly, Romulus himself has absolutely no idea he’s any different from any other big pup his age He is a happy, bouncy young dog At present, his only treatment is a joint supplement, and his care team do not currently anticipate this causing significant issues for him in the future. His new family will simply need to understand his condition and be committed to giving him the appropriate care as he grows. Romulus is looking for a family who will appreciate that underneath all that youthful energy is a loving, loyal and incredibly affectionate boy who is going to make someone an amazing companion. He could potentially live with another friendly, settled dog following suitable introductions. We would also consider a home with children aged 8+ who are confident and used to living with large, bouncy dogs. Romulus will need a family who can continue to guide him, help him mature into the wonderful adult dog he is destined to become, and most importantly, give him all the love he deserves. Romulus is going to be someone’s absolute best friend. Could that someone be you?

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Lady

Meet Lady Meet Lady, a beautiful one-year-old Collie cocker cross who is just beginning to discover that the world isn’t quite as scary as she once thought. Lady is a nervous girl to begin with, but once she gets to know you, she loves you dearly. She can be excitable and frightened, and sadly she hasn’t had much socialisation during her early life. She gets very excited when she sees other dogs at the moment. There’s no badness in her whatsoever — she simply gets overexcited and hasn’t yet learned the right way to say hello. We’re working hard with her, helping her understand how to calmly introduce herself and build positive experiences around other dogs. Once Lady feels comfortable in her environment, she is actually a soft, settled and easygoing girl. She is showing us more of her lovely personality every day, and her progress is wonderful to see. We’re looking for a family who understands that Lady may need a little extra patience and guidance. Someone who will help her build confidence, teach her that the world is an okay place and give her plenty of activity and positive experiences. Children 12+ Ideally an only dog initially With time, patience and the right introductions, she may be able to live with another dog in the future Lady has so much potential. She just needs someone willing to believe in her and help her find her confidence.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Bourbon

He Meet This Wonderful Boy Well… what can we tell you about this fella? He is full of fun, full of craic and absolutely full of life! He loves food, cuddles, walks, playing, balls — basically, he loves everything! He has so much excitement and enthusiasm packed into him, but underneath all that fun is a super well-behaved and settled boy. Watching him run is honestly one of the best things. He is all legs, ears and pure happiness, and he makes every single one of us smile every day. This gorgeous boy is an American Bulldog cross with the most wonderful personality. He loves to play ball, enjoys having fun and is just delighted to be alive. And despite his playful, slightly goofy side, he really is such a lovely boy. Full of fun and character Loves ball and playing Loves his walks Loves his food Loves cuddles Gets on well with other dogs Could happily live as an only dog too When he’s playing, he’s a bit of a donut — in the absolute best possible way! He just throws himself into life and brings so much joy wherever he goes. We’re completely smitten with him, and we know whoever gets to call this boy theirs is going to have one very special companion. He doesn’t just enjoy life… He absolutely LOVES it.

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews

Charley

Everyone meet Charley, a beautiful older Shepherd, estimated to be around 6–7 years old. Life hasn’t always been kind to Charley. When she first arrived with us, she was incredibly frightened. We couldn’t touch her or handle her, and she was underweight and completely unsure of what we wanted from her. But over the last few weeks, we’ve watched something really special happen… Charley has started to blossom. We can now get her on a lead, and she’s beginning to enjoy gentle, sniffy walks. We’re taking everything at her own pace and haven’t pushed her into busy roads or overwhelming environments yet. And that’s exactly what Charley needs from her forever home — time, patience and understanding. A quiet, settled home A secure garden Someone who understands nervous and shy dogs Time to learn to trust and simply be herself The company of another friendly dog could be beneficial Sometimes dogs don’t need big adventures. They don’t need someone who wants to be out doing everything all the time. Sometimes, they simply need their person. Someone who will give them a safe home, a quiet garden, a comfy bed and the freedom to take life at their own pace. Charley is a great girl. She gets on well with the other dogs and, with the right person beside her, we know there is so much more of this lovely girl waiting to emerge. She doesn’t need fixing. She just needs someone who is willing to understand her, trust her and let her learn to trust them. Could you be Charley’s person?

Listed byAlmost Home

4.292 Google reviews