STAFF at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe are celebrating the rehoming of a dog suffering from one of the most severe cases of hip dysplasia the centre vets had ever seen. 

And even better Dolly, the Labrador, has gone to a home that is already fitted with a lift!

Dolly was found in Holsworthy as a stray and as well as the problems with her hips had clearly been bred from a number of times. Sadly this means that many of her puppies will have inherited the painful condition.

Mrs Middleton, who has rehomed Dolly, suffers herself from a long standing neurological disorder and knows all too well what it is like to have mobility issues.

She says: “I have never really been a doggy person but after my children left home and there was a rapid deterioration in my health they felt a dog would be good for me.

I live alone and I use a stick or an electric wheelchair depending how well I am and Dolly, now renamed Molly has motivated me to keep walking, when I can, even with pain and severe discomfort Molly has provided comfort when I have needed a good cry (long term disability can get you down) and she is not bothered by my electric chair, how slow I walk or when my body spasms.

Feeling accepted just as you are is invaluable and a need I didn’t even know existed in me before I met Molly.

If you have a physical or mental weakness, I have had both, I can recommend working with Dogs Trust to find a dog suited to your needs. I am not over exaggerating to say that Molly has helped me laugh again - walking with her (by chair or using a stick), seeing her swim, towel drying her, brushing her, given her treats, stroking her all have added to the quality of mine and my family’s life.

Thank you Dogs Trust for your continued advice and support - I know if I need help you are just a phone call away and my young adult children know now I am never home alone.

I have found a forever friend and Molly has found her forever home.”

Pam Stow, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, says: “We are delighted that Dolly has found such a lovely, sympathetic home. Dolly has so much love to give and was a real favourite with staff, so we are thrilled that Mrs Middleton has been able to offer her a home.”

If you are interested in rehoming a dog, please give our Canine Carers a call at our Ilfracombe Rehoming Centre on 01271 812709. We are open every day between 12 noon and 4pm except Wednesday when we are open from 4.30pm until 7.30pm. Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre Ilfracombe, Hazeldene, West Down, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 8NU.