Toby's found a home!

Remember Toby, the Dalmatian puppy with a complex digestive problem who needed a special home? Well, I was very pleased to get the following message in my inbox this morning from Graeme, Dogs Trust Darlington's Assistant Manager:

Just to let you know Toby the Dalmatian has now been adopted by a lovely local family. They had previously owned a Dalmatian with megaoesphagus and therefore understood the condition and how to care for a dog with it. He went home on Wednesday and was back for a vet check up on Friday and seems to be settling well. As normal, he is still bright and happy - thankfully, his health problems have not 'dampened' this!

We have contacted all the other potential homes offered, and explained that we had chosen this particlar home for Toby, as they had experienced his kind of problem before. All have accepted this and wish him well.

I wish Toby's new owners the best of luck with their new boy and I fervently hope that his health problems continue to stay under control for as long as possible.

Urgent rehoming appeal: Toby the Dalmatian pup

Dogs Trust Darlington is today making an urgent rehoming appeal for one of their most unfortunate canine residents. Sadly, poor eight month old Dalmatian Toby is unlikely to live beyond the age of two because of a digestive illness.

Sue Embleton, Dogs Trust Centre Manager, explains:

“Toby has megaesophagus, a congenital condition meaning food does not pass through to his stomach properly. He needs small, frequent meals and should be held up in a begging position while eating so gravity can help the food move down his oesophagus.

It’s heartbreaking that he is unlikely to live beyond the age of two, but we’d love to find him a caring home where he can enjoy the time he does have.”

His previous owners brought him to the Sadberge centre when they were unable to care for him any longer. Toby cannot be kept in the kennel environment because he is susceptible to infections so staff are making an urgent appeal for a foster home.

New owners need not worry about Toby’s medical bills as Dogs Trust will cover the expense. He would settle in best in a calm home without young children or other pets.

If you are interested in rehoming Toby please call the centre directly on 01325 333 114.

Dog of the Week: Isobel @ Dogs Trust Ilfracombe

Introducing... Isobel!

Age: 5

Breed: Dalmatian

Likes: I am deaf, which is relatively common among my breed. I like going out and playing with other dogs, am very good on the lead and am quite happy to live with cats, although I do try to steal their food!

Dislikes: I'm pretty relaxed, as long as things aren't too bustling; I can't hear so sudden moves are a bit scary.

Needs: I did go to one home for a few weeks but as I need that extra bit of time, effort, training and socialisation I could not stay there and came back to Dogs Trust, where I'm looking for a quiet but active home. I'd love an owner with either Dalamatian experience or a willingness to research the breed and make sure I'd fit in with their lifestyle.

Contact: Call Dogs Trust Ilfracombe on 01271 812709 or see more dogs needing homes online.

Previous Dogs of the Week: Dollar @ Canterbury | Benji @ Evesham

Dog of the Week: Dougie @ Dogs Trust Salisbury

Introducing... Dougie!

Breed: Dalmatian Crossbreed

Age: 7

Likes: I'm a big fan of the common cuddle! Company is a big bonus for me, so I'd love a home with people who are at home much of the day. I'm very happy playing with other dogs and could share a house.
Dislikes: Nothing much! Sometimes people complain I'm over friendly but I can't see how you could be!

Needs: Although I love small kids they are a bit overwhelmed by my size and bouncy demeanour, so I should really live with adults / teenagers.
Contact: Call Dogs Trust Salisbury on 01980 629634 or see other dogs for rehoming online.