In August 2025, a pooch named Dave was surrendered to the Animals in Need shelter in Northamptonshire. Sadly, his previous owner was in poor health and could no longer care for him.
A heartbreaking return
Dave was only a year old and had spent his entire life with his human. He suddenly found himself without a home, living behind the bars of a kennel. So, when someone came to adopt Dave, the whole shelter team was over the moon. They were sure he had found his new forever home.
Sadly, Dave's adoption didn't go as planned. Just 24 hours later, his new owner brought him back to the shelter, claiming that Dave had “behavioural issues”.
A need for patience and understanding
The rescuers had fully briefed his adopters on Dave's behaviour, and they were aware of his needs. The shelter had also offered dog training sessions and ongoing support through The Furever Homes Project, a programme designed to help rescue dogs who find it difficult to be adopted.
Dave was understandably very confused to be back at the shelter. He is a very affectionate dog, but he needs time to relax and build his confidence. Ideally, Dave needs a family willing to invest in his training. We wish him the very best in finding his perfect home soon.
