Woody, the 11-year-old Shih Tzu cross poodle, is still looking for his forever home after a decade spent in kennels (Image: Dogs Trust / SWNS)
A tiny dog has earned the heart-wrenching title of the UK’s “most forgotten dog” from the Dogs Trust after spending a decade in kennels.
Rescue centres across the nation are brimming with longing for a permanent home, and Woody, a poodle mix, has seen countless canine companions find new families while he remains overlooked.
To celebrate his birthday, the posted a collection of photos of the “intelligent” , writing: “At 11-years-old, underdog Woody has spent 10 birthdays with us [heartbroken emoji] Whilst we enjoy his company, we would love for his next birthday to be spent in a loving home. Please share this post to help us get him there.”
Labelled ‘the UK’s most forgotten dog’, Shih Tzu cross poodle mix Woody hasn’t given up hope. Hailed as “one of a kind” and “the most intelligent dog [the rescue centre has] ever worked with”, Woody is eager to find a family that can keep up with his sharp wit and zest for life.
The Dogs Trust welcomed him in 2015 when he was a “worried” little boy who “may not have had the best start in life”, yet he has flourished, having undergone extensive training with his caregivers. The charity noted: “We believe Woody is likely overlooked due to some of his medical conditions, which are easily managed with regular medication.”
The Dogs Trust’s showcase of Woody has touched the hearts of many online, prompting thousands of people to express their sentiments in the comments section. One person said: “What a beautiful little dog! Can’t believe he hasn’t been rehomed already. Hope he finds a loving home soon!” Another contributor said: “So sad, he is adorable”.
A third commenter shared their own positive experience with adopting an older dog: “He’s beautiful hope gets a forever home soon. We have just taken on a ten year old dog and he has brought us so much joy now he’s settled”. Based in Shoreham, lovable Woody was handed over to the Dogs Trust due to issues with “aggression around handling and resources”, but trainers at the facility have successfully taught him valuable life skills to cope with these behaviours.
A specific requirement for his prospective home includes having “a separate area of the home where he can go to eat meals, or when relaxing” to ensure his comfort.
What kind of home is Woody looking for?
As for the type of household ideal for Woody, he is seeking an adult-only home without any other pets, and with access to a garden. He does have medical conditions that need attention, which the Dogs Trust will discuss with potential adopters.
The charity’s website provides further details about Woody’s needs, stating: “Woody requires an adult-only home, with patient adopters who can make multiple visits to our rehoming centre until they’ve formed a sufficient bond, and so that they can learn all about his various training plans.
“Woody is happy to walk alongside other dogs of a calm nature so long as they don’t intrude his personal space. He will need to be the only dog at home and is also unable to live with any cats, house rabbits or guinea pigs.”
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Woody’s future family is advised to embrace the task of grooming him themselves, as he has something of an aversion to professional groomers and requires a “specific routine for handling”. Woody feels decidedly more at ease being tended to by those he trusts most.
Described as a dog with a “larger-than-life” presence, Woody bursts with vivaciousness and “lights up a room”. His fondness for staying active is evident as he “loves to keep busy” and delights in demonstrating his array of tricks, indulging in a game of tug, or chasing after his favourite cuddly toy in a lively game of fetch.
Those keen on welcoming Woody into their home are encouraged to visit the to learn more about the adoption process.