Meet Millie and Jake – Leeds Dogs Trust sponsor dogs

For the last three years, Michael has enjoyed the lovely job of photographing the Leeds Dogs Trust sponsor dogs Millie and Jake, whom The Mighty Pooch also now sponsors. Both long-term residents at the centre, Millie and Jake are wonderful dogs who had a tough start in life.

 

Jake (left) and Millie
Photograph by The Mighty Pooch

Jake is a tan-coloured beagle cross who was born in March 2009. Aged just one, he came to live at Dogs Trust Leeds in March 2010, where he enjoys paddling in the pond and playing with his squeaky toys. He’s also quite the drooler, which could be down to his love of food! Although Jake has been with Dogs Trust since 2010, it is possible that he could find an adoptive home, should the right people come along. He’s certainly a happy chappy with a lot of sunshine in his doggy smile.

Millie is a Heinz 57 – she is her own unique breed. She was born in October 2000 and, aged two, she arrived at Dogs Trust in September 2002. Millie’s favourite things are her toys, grub and trips out in the car. She is mistrustful, however, of strangers, and dislikes those she doesn’t know. Luckily, she has some wonderful carers who she allows in for cuddles – and plenty of canine chums to play with at the centre. She’s a refined lady who offers her paw for treats and, at 12 years old, she still enjoys a walk and a chew on a big stick.

Dogs Trust vows never to destroy a healthy dog – and that’s why they have their sponsorship scheme, as they explain: “For those dogs finding it difficult to be rehomed, whether it’s due to behavioural or medical issues they may have, supporters are able to sponsor them whilst they are in our care. Sponsorship goes towards food, medical care and training for all the dogs in our care. It also covers the costs of running the rehoming centres, ensuring our dogs stay safe and warm until we can reach our ultimate goal of finding each dog a loving home.”

If you want to find out more, or sponsor Jake or Millie yourself, head to www.sponsoradog.org.uk for more information.

Words: Aislinn Kelly

hello@themightypooch.co.uk

A dog is for life …

Today will be Michael’s third time at Dogs Trust Leeds, photographing wonderful sponsor dogs Elvis, Jake and Millie. These dogs are on the sponsor dog scheme because they have behavioural problems that make it difficult for them to find a new home. They can also be nervous of strangers, so Michael has to take great care when taking their photographs not to frighten or upset them.

 

We’d like to share a mission statement from Dogs Trust with you, as these gorgeous dogs need all the help they can get from sponsors and volunteers. If you think you can help, please visit the website www.sponsoradog.org.uk for more information.

“Our mission at Dogs Trust is to bring about the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction. We care for around 16,000 dogs at our 18 rehoming centres across the UK, which is a figure we are extremely proud of. You’re probably already familiar with our popular slogan: ‘A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®’.

Millie at her photoshoot last year at Dogs Trust Leeds

“Because we never destroy a healthy dog, this is where our dog sponsorship scheme steps in. For those dogs finding it difficult to be rehomed, whether it’s due to behavioural or medical issues they may have, supporters are able to sponsor them whilst they are in our care. Sponsorship goes towards food, medical care and training for all the dogs in our care. It also covers the costs of running the rehoming centres, ensuring our dogs stay safe and warm until we can reach our ultimate goal of finding each dog a loving home.

“It does take our long-term residents longer to find their forever home, but we’ve had many success stories as a result of sponsorship. One example is Smudge, a Collie cross who lived at our Glasgow Centre for seven years. He recently found a home and, due to the support of his sponsors, we were able to work closely with Smudge over those seven years to find him the home he deserved.

“If you would like to help us to continue our work through sponsorship, please visit our website www.sponsoradog.org.uk for more information.” For all things related to Dogs Trust Leeds click here.

As pet parents of an abandoned dog, we know only too well the incredible love a rescue dog can give. Personally, we will only ever adopt, as for us it’s not about the breed, the age or the pedigree of the dog. It’s about enjoying the company of these wonderful creatures while also knowing that you have made a real difference to that dog’s life. There’s nothing like it.

www.sponsoradog.org.uk

Words: Aislinn Kelly and Dogs Trust

hello@themightypooch.co.uk