Meet the magnificent seven seniors still looking for their forever home

A magnificent seven ‘golden oldies’ are still waiting patiently for their forever homes at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe.

Older dogs often take longer to find a home but the charity says there are many benefits to adopting a ‘senior’ – they can make wonderful companions for families looking to add a calmer addition to their home.

Many are housetrained and have already learned good manners, so less training is needed and they won’t be as boisterous as younger dogs and puppies.

Plus in their later years a mature dog’s personality is established, allowing carers and potential adopters to assess the type of dog they are and the home that would be the best fit.

Elise Watson, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe, said, “Adopting a golden oldie can be a really special experience. They’re often settled, know their own minds and are just as ready for walks, games, cuddles and new adventures as any younger dog.

“There’s also something wonderful about knowing you’re giving an older dog the happy forever home they deserve. They may have a few more years behind them, but that doesn’t mean they have any less love to give.”

Dogs Trust Ilfracombe currently has seven golden oldies who are looking for their forever homes.

Desmond is an 11-year-old collie who may be an older gentleman, but he certainly hasn’t slowed down. A wonderfully friendly and affectionate boy, he loves exploring on walks, playing fetch with his favourite ball and squeaky toys and spending time with his people.

Desmond is housetrained, travels well in the car and enjoys learning new things, already knowing commands including ‘sit’ and ‘down’. He would love an active family to share plenty of adventures with and would prefer to be the only dog in the home so he can soak up all the attention.

Flo is a 10-year-old Dachshund, a gentle and sensitive soul who needs patient adopters willing to let her get to know them at her own pace.

Once she feels comfortable, she is affectionate and loves nothing more than curling up on the sofa for cuddles or napping in a sunny spot. Flo also enjoys playing with toys, going for relaxed walks and exploring her surroundings.

She is housetrained and travels well in the car, and would thrive in a quiet home with adult adopters who can give her the time and space she needs to build her confidence.

Rocky is a friendly and gentle husky aged 10 who still has plenty of energy and enthusiasm for life. He loves his walks, exploring new places and playing fetch with his favourite toys, but is equally happy relaxing at home and snoozing nearby while his people get on with their day.

Rocky is housetrained, travels well in the car and can be left alone for a few hours, making him a wonderfully adaptable companion. He’d love an active home where he can enjoy plenty of adventures, while preferring to be the only dog so he can have all the love and attention to himself.

Most definitely a package deal, 11-year-old Pomeranian cross Shih Tzus Pepper and Bandit are best friends who are looking for a home together – they have already waited some time for a home.

Pepper is quiet and more reserved, taking her time to warm to new people, while confident Bandit is always ready for a cuddle and loves being the star of the show. The pair enjoy their walks, although they prefer shorter adventures rather than long hikes.

They are both housetrained and would suit a home with secondary school-aged children and a garden. Their foster carers describe them as “a pair of gems” who are easy to have around and bring plenty of entertainment and companionship.

Lola is an 11-year-old Japanese Shiba Inu, a quiet and independent girl who enjoys life at her own pace. While she can be a little reserved around new people, once she knows you, she loves a fuss.

Lola enjoys soft toys, tasty treats and getting out for walks, particularly in woodlands and along the beach, where she can take her time sniffing and exploring.

She is housetrained, travels well in the car and has a good history of living with cats. Lola would suit a quiet home where she can be the only dog and would love adopters who understand her independent Shiba Inu nature.

Buzzbee is another 10-year-old collie and a gentle boy who knows how to enjoy the best of retirement. He loves playing fetch, going for a paddle or swim and exploring woodland walks, where he happily plods along, taking in all the interesting smells.

At home, Buzzbee is a real softie who enjoys his home comforts, including a good cuddle on the sofa. He is housetrained, travels well in the car and is happy to relax at home for a few hours when needed. Buzzbee would suit adult adopters looking for a calm, affectionate companion who can be the only dog in the home and enjoy a quieter life with plenty of playtime and fuss.

Visits to Dogs Trust Ilfracombe are now by appointment only. If you would like to apply to adopt a dog or view any of the dogs still waiting for homes, please fill in the online application form available via https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/ilfracombe