Since arriving in August 2020, she’s now the resident who’s spent the longest at the rescue centre, which staff believe is due to her high energy levels.
Cathie Ward, an Animal Care Assistant at Southridge, told MyLondon: ‘She’s an absolutely beautiful girl, and unfortunately we have struggled to find her a home because of her additional needs.’As a working dog, Hattie needs a lot of mental stimulation and exercise, and her new owner would ideally have experience with similar breeds and lead an active lifestyle. ‘She does get frustrated quite easily – she’s very active,’ added Cathie.Play a Nice Interactive Game of Tug With Your Dog. A 5 minute game of tug works wonders for tiring out your dog & letting him get rid of some of that pent up energy. (and no – it won’t make your dog aggressive despite the old myth)
‘She does like being around people, but it takes her some time to actually get to know you. You can’t do too much too soon with her.
‘It’s just finding that experienced home with someone who’s willing to actually work with her.’
It’s hoped that Hattie’s forever home will have a secure garden and be in a rural or semi-rural location so she can safely run around. If you can offer her a place to swim, even better.INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOUR PET: Stray dogs in Russia have learned how to ride the complex subway system, and get off at specific stops in search of food.
She also cannot live with other pets or children, and should be taken to training classes to continue the behavioural work that she’s already done.
Although it may seem like a lot to ask, putting in the effort with Hattie will pay off for the right person.
Cathie continued: ‘Once she knows people, she does calm down a lot – she’s lovely and very cuddly, but it does take a while for her to get to that stage and to trust you.’
No, it’s not just to make themselves look adorable. Dogs curl up in a ball when they sleep due to an age-old instinct to keep themselves warm and protect their abdomen and vital organs from predators.
After 18 months of rejection, could you be the one to inspire that trust in Hattie?
For more information and to apply to adopt her, visit the RSPCA Southridge website.Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .