A rescue dog has finally found his forever home after spending more than three years in kennels.
Staffie-cross Captain spent 1165 days in the care of Dogs Trust Glasgow, including four Christmases, before being adopted by Tom Gallacher, who lives in Wishaw.
Captain had been at the centre since December 2021, after arriving through the charity’s Chance of a Lifetime scheme, which transfers dogs from council pounds in Northern Ireland to Dogs Trust rehoming centres in the UK.
Tom, who had been left heartbroken after the loss of his dog, Ben, in 2021, thought he would never be able to open his heart to another pet.
He said: “When I lost my heart and soul dog, 17-year-old collie cross Ben in 2021, I was broken and swore I’d never get another dog.
“Then, when I moved to a house with a large garden, I thought I could give a dog a good life here.”
Wishing to help a dog most in need, he contacted Dogs Trust Glasgow and asked about older dogs, those who were unwell or had spent a long time in kennels.
He was introduced to Captain, and the pair had an instant connection.
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Tom said: “As soon as I met him, I knew he was my doggy.
“He clearly had so much love to give, but no one to give it to.
“All he needed was a chance.
“When he came home with me in April, I realised that although I wanted to give Cappy a second chance, ironically, he gave me one.
“He is the sweetest, kindest boy, and I adore him.”
Despite being a “loving and affectionate” pup, Captain had only met with one other potential family during his more than three-year stay and spent time in foster care.
The Dogs Trust ‘underdog’, a term given to dogs who spend more than six months in the charity’s care, earned the nickname Captain Cuddles for his affectionate nature.
Tom said: “Cappy loves kisses, I’d say he gets up to 200 head kisses per day from myself and the family.
“You can tell when his gran has visited as his little head is leopard-printed with lipstick kisses.”
Now settled into his new home, Captain, who will celebrate his 12th birthday this month, is regularly pampered with treats and attention.
Tom said: “He gets spoiled with treats from his grandparents, including enjoying a roast dinner on a Sunday, he is on TikTok, and he even gets fan mail!
“I’m incredibly excited about our first Christmas together, especially as he also celebrates his birthday in December.
“I am planning a party with a cake and many, many gifts.”
Having found the perfect companion in Captain, Tom is now encouraging others to consider adopting an older dog.
He said: “I believe dogs are the closest thing our planet has to angels.
“They love unconditionally and reward loyalty tenfold. Older rescue dogs have so much personality and life, not to mention love to give.
“They may have fewer years to spend with you, but their remaining life can either be spent in kennels or with a family who will love and mourn them.
“Cappy was waiting for someone to give him a chance, and I’m glad that person was me.
“He is my wee shadow, and I couldn’t think of a more perfect doggy.”
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Sandra Downie, manager at Dogs Trust Glasgow, said: “We are thrilled that Captain has found his happy place for Christmas.
“He was always loved, as it is impossible not to love Captain Cuddles, but now he knows what it is like to be part of a family and live in a home where he is spoiled from morning to night, and that makes us all very happy.
“It is what our job is all about – helping every dog find the forever home for them.”
For information about dogs currently waiting to be adopted, visit the Dogs Trust Glasgow website.
To buy a Christmas gift for a rescue dog at the centre, you can view the Amazon wish list: www.amazon.co.uk/registry/wishlist/3RVQJZIMCC1WD
