This is a story, typical of a rescue animal at Leicester Animal Aid.  On 3rd December 2009 a young male Staffordshire Bull Terrier crossbreed was brought into the Centre having been found wandering the streets.  It is difficult to know whether he had escaped from his home or garden or been lost whilst on a walk or if he had been deliberately abandoned but no-one came forward to claim him.  After he had spent 8 days with us (the retention period which allows an owner time to claim their dog) we were able to officially give him a name and record him as an unclaimed stray signed over to our care.  Rebecca, our Kennel Assistant who looks after all new canine residents, named him Robin.  Robin received a full health check by our appointed vet and was given his first vaccination and wormed. He was aged at approximately 2 years old.  Rebecca then was able to carry out a detailed and thorough temperament assessment to determine what kind of new home was most suitable for Robin.  It was clear that he was a very shy and submissive boy who took a little time to trust new people.  He appeared to be fearful of being punished and seemed to think the worst of people.  Our temperatment assessments are regularly reviewed each week and updated accordingly and these may change as the dog settles into it's new environment and their character and personality become more apparent.  Robin was a very sweet, loving boy who adored to give and receive cuddles once he had bonded with his new Kennel Assistant 'Mum' Amy.  He was still very shy and unsure of any new people but over a period of weeks became a little more confident and willing to meet and greet people. 

Robin didn't seem to appeal to visitors to the Centre looking for a new dog and he didn't generate any interest at all.  He was a very gentle boy but because he was still shy at times would sometimes hide from people and if introduced to visitors, would sometimes hide behind Amy's legs - bless him!

Robin was with us for nearly 3 months when a lovely couple spotted him before he had chance to hide and they fell him love with him straight away.  They were able to offer him a very steady and patient home where he could learn to build his confidence further.  Robin, although a little unsure at first, must have realised this was his chance to shine.  We are delighted to say that he went to his new home on 25th March and we've already heard from his new Mum and Dad to say how happy they are with him and how quickly he has settled in. 

We wish Robin and his new family many happy and healthy years together.