Rescue dog gets perfect Valentine’s gift with new Nettleham home thanks to Dogs Trust Merseyside
A dog lover has given a four-legged friend the perfect Valentine’s gift - a second chance at happiness after two years in kennels.
Hiro, a nine-year-old collie cross, returned to Dogs Trust in January 2023 after his owner died.
Despite being a friendly and loving dog, he remained in kennels for 755 days before Natasha Rose, a piano teacher from Nettleham, welcomed him into her home.
“He’s most certainly my Valentine. He’s beautiful and a wonderful companion. We will definitely be together forever. He is joyful,” said Natasha.
Hiro was adopted as a puppy in 2016 but returned to Dogs Trust after his owner died.
His medical condition, Addison’s disease, and nervousness around new people may have contributed to his long wait for a new home.
Undeterred, Natasha travelled 150 miles to Dogs Trust Merseyside, where it was love at first sight.
“It was amazing. He relaxed with us quite quickly, and by the second day, he was rolling over for a tummy tickle, so a week later, he came home with us,” Natasha said.
A week later, on Valentine’s Day, Hiro settled into his new home in Nettleham.
Hiro spends his days exploring, paddling in the beck, and visiting the church, where he hoovers up biscuit crumbs after coffee mornings.
“He likes to take his time to get to know people, so I’m introducing him to people in the village at a slow pace so he can build his confidence, and everyone is being really respectful of him, as well as admiring him as he’s so beautiful,” Natasha explained.
A longtime rescue dog owner, Natasha hopes Hiro’s story inspires others to adopt overlooked dogs.
“If anyone is thinking of welcoming a dog into their life, please rescue. Dogs Trust never gives up on a dog, and Hiro is testament to that,” she said.
More information about adopting a dog can be found at www.dogstrust.org.uk.
Dogs Trust cares for around 13,000 dogs each year across its 21 UK rehoming centres and never puts a healthy dog to sleep.
