Battersea Dogs and Cats Home calls on public to adopt overlooked dogs this Christmas

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home currently has 240 homeless dogs across their three centres, including a group of dogs who have been named the ‘Battersea underdogs’ by staff and volunteers.

Battersea Centre Manager Robert Young explains: “Our underdogs are a wonderful group of dogs in our kennels who are sadly having a tough time finding a home.

“They’ve been joining in the Christmas festivities and we’re hoping anyone thinking of rehoming a dog at this time of year will help give them a second chance in life.

“They would all love to find a family in time for Christmas.”

Meet the underdogs:

This is Tia Pig, a four-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier who is the longest-stay resident at the centre. She is called Tia Pig because of the “adorable snorting noises” she makes when she is happy.

Tia had been through a lot as she arrived at the centre with an injured back leg that had to be amputated. She is getting along well since and would be a wonderful family pet, but because of her leg she would be looking for a home with older children.

Robert Young says: “Tia Pig’s having a tough time finding a home because of her missing limb. It’s such a shame because she gets around so well on three legs and you’d struggle to find a more loving and affectionate dog.

“Tia has been with us for over 160 days and we’re hoping she’ll find a home in time for Christmas.”

This is Freddy, a four-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier/Greyhound cross whose woebegone expression has earned him the title of Battersea’s saddest dog. Freddy was wandering the streets as a stray when he was hit by a car. His hip was dislocated in the accident and he needed surgery. He was brought to the centre has been looking for a home ever since. 

Robert Young says: “Freddy’s got the best of both breeds, with the loyal and affectionate nature of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the gentle temperament of a Greyhound.

“We think finding a home in time for Christmas would finally bring a smile to this sad boy’s face.”

This is Buffy, a two-year-old mongrel who has been nicknamed Battersea’s 'tiger-dog' due to her distinctive orange and black-stripped coat.

Robert Young said: “Buffy is very affectionate and super-intelligent but she does sometimes forget her own size- so she’ll need someone who can handle her on the lead.

“Buffy’s been at Battersea for close to three months and we’re at a loss to understand why no one has taken this lovely natured, clever girl home.”

This is Katie, a four-year-old greyhound and because there has recently been a large influx of greyhounds to the centre she is finding it hard to stand out from the crowd.

Robert Young said: “Katie is being overlooked in favour of our more exotic looking dogs.

“It’s a shame because any dog-lover who spends five minutes with her will realise she’s a stand-out girl, who is smiley and eager to please. Katie loves snuggling in her favourite, festive pyjamas.”

This is Mutley, a five-year-old Jack Russell cross who is finding it hard to find a home because his vision is impaired. He has cataracts but does not let this slow him down. His new owners need to be mindful of his vision because he can be a bit nervous, especially if he gets startled by sudden movements.

Robert Young said: “Mutley’s a pint-sized ball of affection who loves to snuggle with his favourite people.

“Because of his poor eyesight, Mutley’s looking for a calm home with no children with owners who have the time to help him settle.

“Mutley’s a really loving little chap and he’s stolen the hearts of many of the staff and volunteers at Battersea.”  

If you can offer any of the ‘Battersea underdogs’ a home in time for Christmas please 0843 509 4444 or visit battersea.org.uk.

Battersea is open throughout Christmas and New Year, but closed for rehoming on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.