The RSPCA is urging people to consider adopting larger dogs this Adoptober as the charity is struggling with record numbers of dogs in its care.
It is hoped that Adoptober – the RSPCA’s annual rehoming campaign – will be the month for Presa Canario Xena (pictured) German Shepherd Cross Rusty and Doberman Cross Labrador Shadow and forever homes will finally be found for them all. They are all currently under the care of Danaher Animal Home in Wethersfield.
In 2024 the RSPCA as a whole across its centres and branches rehomed a staggering 26,167 animals.
Branches are part of the RSPCA but run as charities in their own right and work incredibly hard to rehome and rehabilitate animals across England and Wales.
The rehoming appeal for Xena, Rusty and Shadow comes as the RSPCA reveals it is facing a rehoming crisis with record numbers of rescued dogs in care across RSPCA national animal centres and branches.
While new data from the charity* reveals that it can take up to seven times longer for some larger dog breeds to find a new home compared to smaller dogs.
RSPCA pet behaviour expert Dr Sam Gaines said: “We urgently need homes for big dogs, who can wait seven times longer than smaller dogs to find their forever home.
“We are in an unprecedented rehoming crisis as several large-scale cruelty and neglect cases have led to record numbers of dogs and cats in our care and are at risk of running out of space. We desperately need adopters now more than ever, so we can continue to rescue and care for the animals who need us.
“It’s the perfect storm with dogs rescued from cruelty and neglect needing longer to recover and needing more specialist homes, and at the same time, rehoming has slowed right across the welfare sector.”
Sam added: “Our unique and special dogs may not be the right pet for everyone. Some need some extra help to help them recover from their past, some are misunderstood because of the way they look, some need quiet homes with no other pets, and others need owners who can keep up with their boundless zest for life.
“But we know the right people are out there and urgently need to hear from them.
Gentle giants, big softies and larger than life characters; we’ve got every kind of big dog, each one is unique, special and deserves a second chance of happiness.”
Xena is just four-years-old and is eagerly looking for her forever home which she has been waiting for 149 days.
Trina Hood from Danaher Animal Home said: “Although it took her a bit of time to settle in, Xena is now much more relaxed and ready to meet her perfect family.
“At first, she might have seemed a bit reserved, but her wonderful personality is truly starting to shine. Xena greets her handlers with enthusiasm and is now soaking up all the attention and affection she receives.
“Xena enjoys the company of other dogs and often enjoys hanging out with a friendly canine companion. Xena can be a strong girl on lead but she is learning so quickly and is already walking really well on lead. Xena is such a smart girl!
“If you’re looking for a loyal friend who will enrich your life, Xena might just be the perfect match for you.”
Rusty is one of the animal home’s long stays and was rescued from a multi-dog household. She is currently staying with a foster carer.
“Rusty needs an adopter with time and patience to settle her into a home environment,” said Trina. “Although a house is not familiar to her, she is confident in a home, but she just needs time to learn the rules and boundaries.
“Rusty is an outdoorsy girl — she needs a good garden space at her home to enjoy and spend time in if the house becomes too much.
“She loves sunbathing or feeling the wind in her ears and she loves her tennis balls.”
Rusty regularly goes off site on different walks in different scenarios – she travels well – she’s always confident and loves to explore – she often attends our local events and is always friendly with people and other dogs. Rusty would not be able to live with other dogs or cats.
Finally, Doberman Cross Labrador, Shadow, is just a year old and has been waiting 162 days for a home.
“Shadow is a bundle of energy and affection, and gets along great with everyone he meets – whether they’re familiar faces or new pals,” said Trina.
