13/10/2024
Our lovely Derek
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Hi there, I’m Derek—a 53kg ball of fluff, nerves, and love. I’ve got a story to tell, and trust me, it’s a rollercoaster. So, buckle up, grab a treat (I’ll wait if you want to fetch one for me too), and let me take you back to where it all started. Spoiler alert: I almost didn’t make it.
It began on one of the worst days of my life. I was standing outside a vet’s, shaking like a leaf in the wind. I didn’t know what was happening, but I knew it wasn’t good. I’d been tossed around, travelling in the back of a van all the way up to Scotland and then back down again. No rest, no peace—just fear. I was exhausted, stressed out of my mind, and ready to give up. Then, I heard them talking… about putting me to sleep. Yep, they were ready to end my life.
I wasn’t aggressive, I wasn’t a bad dog—I was just scared. But to them, I guess that was enough. My heart was sinking, and I thought, “Is this it for me?”
Then, like something out of one of those movies with dramatic music and slow-motion running, a lovely lady arrived. She stepped in and said, “Wait, this dog deserves a chance!” I didn’t know it then, but she would change my life forever. She reached out to Save Our Seized Dogs and Salt’s Helping Hounds Rescue, and before I could even finish my panic panting, they were on the phone to the vets, working out a plan to save me.
That’s how I found myself at Abbey Boarding Kennels, which, let me tell you, is basically like a five-star doggy rehab. This place is amazing! They treat us like royalty, with all the patience and care in the world. It’s more than just kennels—it’s a safe haven for pups like me to heal and grow.
But this wasn’t going to be easy. I wasn’t exactly a carefree pup at this point. Trust me, after everything I’d been through, I wasn’t going to be handing out tail wags and cuddles to just anyone. I was nervous—really nervous.
But the team at Abbey and the folks at Salt’s and SOSD? Wow. They’re patient, kind, and honestly, I’m pretty sure they have superpowers. It takes a lot of love and effort to get a dog like me to trust again. It’s not a quick fix; it’s a long journey. And guess what? They promised they’d be there for me for life—no matter what.
Oh, and speaking of drama, there was a moment where someone even reported me to the police, saying I was a banned breed! Can you believe that? Me?! A banned breed?! I might look big and intimidating, but all I want is a belly rub and maybe a snack. Thankfully, after some paperwork (and probably a few more treats to calm my nerves), it was confirmed that I’m just a regular dog—not banned, just big, furry, and a little misunderstood.
Now, I’ve got to give a massive shoutout to my special hooman—she’s been working with me ever since. You see, I can be a bit of a busybody. I like to say hello to everyone I meet—usually by running up to them like a freight train. I’m not dangerous, but not everyone is thrilled when a 53kg dog barrels towards them, tongue out and tail wagging. So, she’s been teaching me some manners, and she even got me used to wearing a muzzle. I’m not going to lie—I rock it. It keeps me safe, and honestly, I feel pretty handsome in it.
My special hooman is helping me work through my anxieties, giving me the time and space I need to feel comfortable. She’s been my guiding star, and I think every dog out there deserves someone like her.
But here’s the thing, folks: all this—the rehab, the training, the second chances—it’s not possible without help. Dogs like me need resources. There are vet bills, kennels, food, training. The truth is, it takes a lot to give dogs like me a second chance. But it’s worth it.
If you’ve got a few coins rattling around, would you consider donating? Every little bit helps, and trust me, no amount is too small. It all adds up, and it all makes a difference. You could even set up a monthly donation if you’re feeling extra generous! And if you’ve got some unwanted items lying around, why not donate them to an auction to help raise funds? Here’s how you can help:�PayPal: [email protected]�Salt’s Helping Hounds:�HSBC�Sort Code: 40-41-59�Account No: 80003166
Your kindness keeps dogs like me safe, fed, and on the road to our forever homes. Thank you for making my tail wag again.
💫🐾
