Co.Antrim dog finally rehomed after spending 500 days at animal shelter

'Polly' finally finds her forever home

Dogs Trust Ballymena
Published 13th Sep 2017
Last updated 15th Sep 2017

Staff at Dogs Trust Ballymena are thrilled to announce that one of their long-term residents has found her special someone. Six-year-old Border Collie cross Polly, who is a firm favourite amongst recently headed off into the sunset with her new family and is settling in well.

Polly, who was a resident at Dogs Trust Ballymena for more than 500 days, was made an honorary member of staff during her stay and has previously supported the work that goes on at the Rehoming Centre. In January she helped promote the Northern Ireland Campaigns team’s microchipping efforts when they microchipped their 1,000th dog.

The following month she helped provide valuable information to the public around appropriate tasty treats for dogs ahead of Shrove Tuesday and then supported the promotion of the team’s rehoming efforts for April Fools’ Day.

Polly was spotted online by the Smyth family. Richard and his wife Janet, along with their two daughters Laura and Anna, had been looking for a new pet after their previous dog Jet - also a rescue dog, sadly passed away after 10 happy years with the family.

Richard said:

“We, like the staff of Dogs Trust Ballymena, couldn’t understand why no one had come forward sooner to give Polly a home. After meeting her we could tell she was a very relaxed, happy dog who would fit in nicely with our family. She especially loves people and has given all visitors a warm if noisy welcome. We definitely believe Polly chose us just as much as us choosing her.

“It’s strange because our daughter Anna noticed Polly on Dogs Trust social media a year ago and now she is part of our family. We couldn’t ask for a better companion for our family and look forward to plenty of trips to the country and beach for walks.

“We look forward to providing a secure and happy home for her after her long wait to find a family.”

Oonagh Phillips, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ballymena, said:

“We couldn’t be happier that Polly has finally found a new home, especially after all the hard work she had put in helping out around the centre. Richard and his family definitely seem to appreciate her for the amazing companion she is and we look forward to keeping in touch with them to find out how she is progressing in her new surroundings.”

If you are interested in adopting a dog, please get in touch with Dogs Trust or visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/ballymena