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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Thomas Fox & Paige Freshwater

'UK's loneliest dog' spends nine years in kennels waiting for family to want him

After spending nine years in kennels, he has become known as one of the UK's loneliest dogs - and still nobody has come forward to rehome him.

Freddie, aged 10, is at risk of dying in rescue without knowing what it is to be loved by his own family.

He was brought to Holbrook Animal Rescue, in Horsham, West Sussex, at around eight-months-old - and has seen countless animals come and go in his time.

Unlike most kennels, Holbrook keeps its dogs in a house rather than traditional kennels, making the adjustment from shelter to a home easier on the animals.

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He has been adopted twice - but was quickly returned both times (Holbrook Animal Rescue)

Although the Staffie cross has twice been adopted, he was quickly returned, spending almost no time with his 'new' families, reports SussexLive.

Since then, nobody has shown any interest in him, which lead to sanctuary owners Laura and Cliff Santini calling off the active search to find him his own family.

But they never gave up hope that the right owner would come along one day.

Hayley Georgiou, a fundraising volunteer at the centre, said: "In many ways, Freddie is the perfect pet.

He would make the perfect pet to the right owner (Holbrook Animal Rescue)

"He has made great progress with his behaviour.

"He’s house trained, obedient, and has good recall so can go off-lead on walks.

"He only needs around 45 mins walking twice a day, so isn’t among the most energetic of dogs."

Freddie has been described as a "total sweeties" with a "cheeky personality" - and is said to "love cuddles, tummy tickles and riding in the car".

"The issue with Freddie is that he gets very strongly attached to his owners, and takes it upon himself to guard them," said Hayley.

"As such, he needs a strong ‘pack leader’ as an owner, who isn’t afraid to set boundaries and is consistent with his training.

"Initially, Freddie warms better to women but with time will bond just as well with men."

"He will need someone patient as there will be some settling in time for him, since he has spent the majority of his life at the animal rescue."

If you're interested in rehoming Freddie, or any other animals in Holbrook Animal Rescue's care, visit their website.

Do you have a dog story to sell? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.

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