WhatsApp in the paddock
Last summer Gables Dogs and Cats Home were asked to help with several dogs who had been living outdoors in unsuitable conditions. Some of them were likely to have been used for hunting other animals and had been given little in the way of care and affection. Despite this, most of these dogs were friendly and have gone on to find loving forever homes. However, one particular dog named WhatsApp has not been so lucky.
Poor WhatsApp has been rejected 6 times, after meeting potential families, and the Gables team just can’t understand why. The gorgeous 4 year old lurcher has been matched up on several occasions with potential adopters, but on meeting him they just don’t feel the love. WhatsApp is a firm favourite with the staff and volunteers and they have found him to be very happy and friendly with everyone he meets (with the exception of cats and small furry animals). He is a very affectionate chap who loves exploring and is happy meeting new people. He is sociable with dogs and happy around children over the age of 10. He will need house training and guidance on living inside a house, but with a good routine and vigilant owners this should be resolved easily.
Ruth Rickard, Deputy Manager says: “Despite WhatsApp’s past he is such a loving and affectionate dog, this makes it even more disheartening that he has been rejected so many times through no fault of his own. Sadly some people expect too much from their first meeting with a dog and are hoping for an instant connection. Although in many cases a dog will approach straight away to say hello, others are keen to investigate their surroundings first, which is something that WhatsApp loves to do. Dogs see the world through their noses and scent plays such an important part in how they interact with their environment. Sniffing around, scent marking and investigating new areas is how they ensure it is safe and poses no threat to them. When WhatsApp visits a new location he gets so distracted by everything around him that sometimes he forgets to say hello to the humans but it doesn’t mean he doesn’t like you, he just needs a little time.”
If you think WhatsApp is the right dog for you Gables would love to hear from you. You can find out more about the lovely boy on their website www.gablesfarm.org.uk/dogalogue/whatsapp/. On their website you will also find details on the current adoption process and how to complete an online adoption application form. Gables really hope that the perfect person is out there who is happy to offer a warm and loving home to their happy boy.