Golfer Tom McKibbin adopts namesake puppy after its litter was dumped in a plastic bag
The Northern Ireland pro golfer gave the pup a forever home after six pups were found abandoned
One of six abandoned puppies named by an animal charity after famous golfers has been adopted by Tom McKibbin.
The professional golfer from Northern Ireland has given his namesake puppy a forever home, after the Dogs Trust flagged their plight during the week of the Open.
Dogs Trust in Ballymena rescued the puppies in June, just weeks before the major golf tournament at Royal Portrush.
They were named after golfers.
Tom who has renamed the animal Junior, spoke of his new furry friend:
"I am so thrilled to have been able to adopt Junior.
"He is a fantastic little guy and has settled in so well.
"He is so smart, is getting bigger every day and is loving life.
"It feels like he has been with us forever and it is going to be great to watch him grow up happy, especially considering what could have happened had he not been found."
He added: "Dogs Trust has been so supportive throughout the entire adoption process, including aftercare, and I know they are there if I have any questions or issues.
"Everyone should be aware of Dogs Trust, as they have many dogs waiting to find a forever home.
"My cousin adopted one of the other pups - Rory, now named Arnie after Arnie Palmer - and he and Junior meet regularly for playtime. It is fantastic to see them living their best lives."
As well as little Tom, pups Rory McIIroy, Padraig Harrington, Shane Lowry, Justin Rose and Darren Clarke, who was the first to be adopted, have all found loving new homes in Northern Ireland.
Sarah Park, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust Ballymena, said: “After the truly shocking way in which these beautiful boys were found, discarded in a carrier bag like rubbish, we couldn’t be more thrilled that they all survived and have now been adopted.
"They arrived in our care malnourished and scared, and left as happy, healthy and playful bundles of joy.
“It was quite something when Tom McKibbin got in touch to adopt his namesake pup; we could never have predicted that.
"And we are so glad he liked the name, now Tom McKibbin Junior!
"We thank all the owners for adopting from Dogs Trust and wish them many years of love, loyalty and happiness from their new four-legged friends."