Staff member at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe finds forever home for rescue dog

A staff member at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe has given a rescue dog named Paisley the loving home he deserves after nearly two years in the charity’s care.

Three-year-old Trailhound Paisley, who arrived at the centre as a stray in February 2022, spent 684 days under the watchful eye of the Dogs Trust team. 

His journey to a forever home was marked by significant challenges, including food guarding and a diagnosis of elbow dysplasia requiring regular hydrotherapy.

Training and Behaviour Advisor Lindsey Maggs, who worked closely with Paisley from the beginning, saw beyond his initial struggles. 

She said: “I started working with Paisley soon after he arrived, almost two years ago. Although he really struggled in kennels, I could see his potential and couldn't not love his funny, cheeky persona - his antics have always made me laugh.”

Paisley’s transition was not easy. 

He had never lived in a home before and needed to acclimate to a domestic environment.

To facilitate this, Lindsey and her colleagues used the on-site bungalow to help Paisley get used to a home setting and address his guarding behaviour.

The social yet sensitive dog was in search of an adult-only home where he could feel safe and loved. 

Potential adopters needed to visit the rehoming centre multiple times to build a bond with him. 

However, despite the challenges, Lindsey decided to adopt Paisley herself.

Lindsey said: “My circumstances changed recently, making me able to apply to adopt Paisley. I thought it would take a long time to settle him into my home, as he'd lived in kennels for so long, but he has surprised me by how quickly he's adjusted to home living. I'm so happy to have him at home with me and I'm so excited about all the fun we're going to have in the future. He has a comical howl when he is excited, he's such a wonderful boy!”

Elise Watson, the Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, praised Lindsey's commitment. 

She said: “Hundreds of people a week make the call to give up their dog. Some find homes quickly, but hundreds more must stay in our care for many months because they have complex needs. Dogs Trust goes the extra mile for every dog regardless of how long they are in the charity’s care. Help us be there for every dog for as long as they need us by visiting Dogs Trust Support Us to see how you can support us.”