I have spoken at great lengths over the years about how certain breeds receive reputations and then become undesirable. I'm sure by now you will all recognise the breeds I've mentioned, so I won't go over old ground, but I would like to introduce you to Sally, who is a much maligned American Bulldog.
Sally came to us a few years ago as a stray and quite shut down. We had no history on her, but it was suggested that it was maybe the owner who handed her in, why we will never know.
She adjusted to kennel life slowly, but eventually we saw the real her and she made new friends, both two and four legged. She was particularly fond of Bouncer who she socialised with until he moved onto his new home. Watching her play with him in the run was fabulous to see.
However, there was just one issue that stopped her progressing onto pastures new herself. Sally took a great deal of effort to protect anything that she thought was valuable, normally food.
Despite her obvious flaw, she quickly became a huge favourite of everyone and even found a new little playmate in Chuck the Staffy. He only has to see her walking his way and he instantly rolls over onto his back wanting her to give him a sniff!
Time though waits for noone, and over the last few months Sally has began to show her age. We think she is probably about eleven or twelve, and her hearing seems to have deteriorated the older she gets. A few lumps and bumps are showing but she still gets out and about, especially of course if food is involved.
With the winter well and truly settled in now, we are looking for a home where Sally can see out the rest of her days. She would need to be the only dog with no other animals and for her peace we wouldn't put her with children. We would be open to a foster home rather than a permanent adoption if preferred, all we want is for Sally to have somewhere to be warm this winter.
If you would like an application form or would like to know more about how you can help Sally then please email foreverfoster@shak.org.uk