Rehome my dog – Bertie’s Story
Earlier this year Bertie was surrendered to the charity. It is rare that we would consider a crossbreed and he clearly had Jack Russell in him, but this was an emergency.
He had begun to show aggression and had bitten. He was becoming increasingly protective of his male owner as the lockdown ended and children were coming into the home as his wife was a nanny. For obvious reasons, it was necessary for them to let Bertie go.
There was no immediate home available and so he was put into temporary foster. Within 24 hours he was showing aggression again and had bitten his foster carer’s partner.
Bertie had to be removed immediately and one of our coordinators was able to collect him and take him home. It was clear he was incredibly stressed and needed time. His issues meant it would be difficult finding him the right home.
He was very reactive to noise and reacted badly initially to any visitors. Barking was also a problem and much of this was anxiety related.
He settled in with the coordinator’s family and was fine with her 2 dachshunds. She would have kept him, but his youthful exuberance was too much for her older dogs who enjoy the quiet life!!
Eventually, a new home was found after much searching and off he went.
It did not go well 😔 The new owner’s dachshund did not react positively to the new addition and was overly aggressive towards Bertie.
Within 48 hours it was apparent poor Bertie would have to move again. Fosterers were found and yet again he was moved.
Of course, this was not what anyone wanted, and it was devastating for everyone who wanted this lovely boy to find the happy future he deserved.
So back to the drawing board and the search resumed.
A couple were found who were prepared to give Bertie a chance, so a week later he travelled to his second new home. Surely this was going to work!!
Bertie tried hard but again there were problems. He started guarding one of his new owners and became aggressive towards her husband and their Labrador. After 2 weeks they couldn’t continue to keep him and again he would have to be moved.
Back to our adoption applications and all the coordinators were looking out for the home that would suit him. We had to get it right. All the moves between homes were not helping Bertie’s issues and he needed an experienced owner who would be able to give him time and the proper training.
Eventually, one application became known that sounded perfect. A quiet home with lots of space and land for Bertie to release all his youthful energy plus, another young dog in the household, who was receptive to other dogs in the home.
Luckily, a family related to a dog trainer was available to offer help and support. They were told EVERYTHING about Bertie’s history and his problems, and they were thrilled to be considered and eager to give Bertie his opportunity.
Their 14-year-old daughter put in a great deal of work creating a training programme to support him as it was clear Bertie was a highly intelligent dog who would respond well to new challenges.
This was Bertie’s sixth placement, and it took place just a few weeks ago!!!!
We are delighted to tell you he has settled in brilliantly. He is learning new tricks and revelling in his new environment.
Everyone involved in this story could not be more thrilled with the outcome of this emotional rollercoaster. It took a long time but all the time and commitment to Bertie has been worthwhile.
We will ask Evie to let us know how his training is going and update you on his progress in a few weeks. We love a happy ending 💜💜
When we get a call to “rehome my dog”, we’re always willing to help. As you can see, it’s not always as straightforward as we’d like. It’s great to see that our team of voluntary coordinators were able to work together to provide a successful conclusion and a new permanent home for Bertie.
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing to rehome your dog, for whatever reason, feel free to reach out to your local Dachshund Rescue coordinator. We have a UK-wide team. You’ll find their contact details here
Being a UK charity, all of our work is funded by our fundraising efforts and the generosity of donors and supporters.
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