Maggie the lurcher was handed into the care of Dogs Trust Darlington as a six-month-old pup and has never experienced a birthday or Christmas in a home.
The now four-year-old has only one birthday wish – to find a home this year.
Her early life was unsettled after being handed into Dogs Trust Darlington as a puppy, and she has spent most of her formative years in kennels.
Her carers said, as a result Maggie lacks confidence and can be shy when meeting new people and can be unsure in unfamiliar situations.
The dedicated training team at Dogs Trust Darlington have spent lots of ‘quality time’ with Maggie, helping her with her worries.
This includes training her not to feel anxious during vet visits.
Maggie has excelled in all aspects of her training, and the team are proud of how far she has come.
Now, they hope that 2025 will be the year she finds her forever family.
Alex Hennessey, manager at Darlington Rehoming Centre, said: “Maggie is a super sweet girl with a loving nature who is one of our ‘Underdogs’, which is the term given to dogs who have been in our care for more than six months.
“She can be a worrier, but our training team have worked wonders with Maggie and great things have been achieved.
“Maggie is affectionate and loves company.
“Although shy on initial meeting, once the bond is made you will never be short of snuggles and fun times with Maggie.
“In no time she will be showing you her friendly, fun and energetic nature.
“We know for sure that Maggie will make a wonderful addition to a family as we have seen similar lurchers flourish when they meet their perfect match.
“To anyone looking for a loyal and loving best pal who will be on your side, and by your side through thick and thin, please consider our marvellous Maggie.”
For more information visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/darlington.
Maggie requires an adult-only home, with no visiting children, and a garden of her own where she can show you her ‘speedy zoomies’.
She will need a few meetings with her prospective owners at the rehoming centre to build a bond before going home.
Lurchers are sighthounds (such as a greyhound, whippet or saluki) crossed with another breed and therefore differ in size, with variable hair lengths, and are found in a wide variety of colours.
Despite their loving natures, lurchers can often spend longer in Dogs Trust care than other breeds.
They are known for their long, graceful frames, deep chests and loyalty as companions.
In addition to Maggie, Dogs Trust Darlington is currently caring for five lurchers, three of which are ‘underdogs’, having been in the charity’s care for over six months.
You can watch Maggie’s video here and to read more about her, visit the Dogs Trust website.
To read more about her go to www.dogstrust.org.uk/darlington.