Former Dogs Trust resident gives owner a new leash of life!
This Valentine’s Day, as former Dogs Trust Ilfracombe resident, 12-year-old Westie Ben, celebrates his 5th year in a loving home, his devoted owner Tom Harris has hailed the pooch ‘a hero hound’ for helping to turn his life around.
Mr Harris was suffering from anxiety and depression when he decided to adopt Ben whilst visiting the rehoming centre in West Down back in 2011. It was truly love at first sight and from that day on, Ben was to become not only his new owner’s constant companion but his support system too.
While Tom found it difficult to meet new people, his four legged best friend gave him a new found purpose and helped him overcome his fears. The pair now enjoy going out for plenty of walks, making new friends along the way and having a snooze on the sofa together after a busy day.
Owner Mr Tom Harris of Trouville comments: “Ben is an amazing little dog who has made such a difference to my life. Whilst I previously found it difficult to leave the house, Ben has given me a reason to get out and about every day. He loves meeting new friends on our daily walks and is such a character – everyone in the area knows him and having Ben has helped me get talking to people too.”
“We have formed such a bond and I can’t imagine life without him now. It’s plain to see that Ben is a really special dog and I couldn’t be happier that we found each other.”
Elise Watson, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe adds: "It is lovely to see our dogs rehomed, especially when they are making such a difference to people’s lives. We have a whole host of dogs at the centre that are just as kind and caring as Ben, ready and waiting to start a new life with a loving family.”
If you are interested in rehoming a dog, please call Dogs Trust Ilfracombe on 0300 303 0292 or visit the centre at Hazeldene, West Down, North Devon, EX34 8NU.
Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for nearly 17,000 dogs each year through its network of 20 Rehoming Centres across the UK and one in Dublin.
For more information about the charity’s work please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk
