A "cheeky" dog has spent 600 days in a Manchester rescue shelter waiting for somebody to adopt her.
Lena, who was rescued from Romania, arrived at Dogs 4 Rescue “feral and untouchable” in spring 2020 when it was thought she would remain in kennels “forever”.
Two years later, however, her resilience and bravery has meant she is finally ready to find a special place to call home.
The golden girl walked on a lead for the first time this weekend - and is continuing to surpass the rescue centre's expectations.
Emma Billington at Dogs 4 Rescue said: “We are now looking for a home for Lena. It will need to be a special one as she’s come from being completely feral and untouchable to a dog that likes a fuss.
“She’s able to enjoy her walks now and is okay with cats and dogs.
“Though she isn’t like any normal dog and will need a quiet and patient home to help her learn about things like TV and hoovers.
“It’s astounding how well Lena has done - we thought she would be here forever.”
The team at Dogs 4 Rescue have been working with Lena on her rehabilitation and socialisation over the last couple of years.
It wan't until her 599th day at the centre when she successfully walked down the lane on a lead for the very first time.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, Dogs 4 Rescue said: “She’s been practising with the team inside the rescue, learning not to panic.”
The walk was a huge milestone for five-year-old Lena, as stray dogs in Romania often have a fear of getting caught by dog catchers and “catch-poles” in the street.
Thanks to her reward-based training, Lena impressively managed a “relatively relaxed walk” in a new environment.
Emma describes Lena as a “difficult girl to understand with a very cheeky character”.
Dogs 4 Rescue would like to find an adult-only, experienced home for Lena - either foster or trial with a view to adopt.
Lena’s future owner would need to understand feral dogs and their fears, and have time and patience. Lena hasn’t left the rescue since she arrived.
To find out more about Lena, contact Dogs 4 Rescue .
