A Staffordshire bull terrier cross who has been in rescue for nearly a year has taken matters into her own paws - by dressing up in Dalmatian spots in the hopes someone will fall in love with her.
Alaska, a seven-year-old black and white dog, arrived in rescue at RSPCA Crewe, Nantwich & District branch , in Cheshire, in March 2021, with two other dogs.
She had spent most of her life in difficult conditions, living in a rusty crate and barely leaving the house.
A spokesperson from the branch said: “Alaska and her friends were underweight and poorly fed, never walked, rarely saw the outside world, and had limited contact with people.
“Despite everything they’d been through, all three dogs were friendly and affectionate with everyone they met.”
Alaska had lumps on her body that were all removed, one of which was found to be cancerous.
Her tumour was successfully removed and vets confirmed that there is no sign the cancer had spread.
After treatment, Alaska went up for rehoming in July, and while her friends were both rehomed, she’s still waiting, and simply can’t understand why.
So, in the hopes of finding a forever home, she’s dressed up as a Dalmatian with a special winter coat in a bid to win over adopters who may be put off by her breed.
The rescue added: “Of course, they shouldn’t be put off by Alaska’s breed. Staffies can make absolutely wonderful pets and companions, and Alaska will make the best addition to the right home.
"She is a happy girl who always greets us with a waggy tail. She has the most beautiful eyes and so much love to give; she just wants someone to love her in return.
“She is a friendly, sweet, sociable girl who absolutely loves spending time with people. She’s incredibly smart and picks up new things quickly.
“She loves to sniff for treats and learn new tricks. She walks nicely on the lead but can be reactive with other dogs so would like a new home where she can enjoy walks in quiet areas.”
Alaska is looking for a foster home or a forever home in a quiet, calm, adult-only household without other pets.
She’d like a secure, enclosed garden where she can play, with calm, patient owners who can slowly teach her how to settle into a new routine.
Alaska would benefit from additional training as she can be boisterous and get over-excited at times. The branch behaviourist will be on hand to help new adopters with this.
“Unfortunately Alaska suffers from chronic gut disease which has caused some bouts of illness and meant she’s struggled to put on weight,” the spokesperson added.
“She has a specialist diet and medication which has helped and we’re confident this will improve once she’s out of the kennel environment, which she finds incredibly stressful.”
Ideally Alaska’s adopters would live within 40 miles of the branch so the team can continue to support her in her new home.
Find out more about Alaska online or contact the team on 07748 400919 or dogrehoming@rspca-crewenantwich.org.uk for more information.
