A heartfelt appeal has been made by the Animals in Distress Rescue Centre as five long-stay dogs search for their forever homes.

The five dogs, Boris, Buddy, Otis, Olive, and Lilah, each have unique needs that render them more difficult to rehome; however, for the right adopters, they could become devoted and loving companions.

While the centre typically sees dogs rehomed within 14 to 30 days, these five have found themselves staying significantly longer, with some having been in the shelter for months or even years.

Often dogs with special behavioral needs and age-related challenges are overlooked and end up without a forever home.

Meet the long-stay residents:

Boris, the French Bulldog, is the first on the list, having spent 172 days at the centre. He is three years, and six months old.

A lover of people and snuggles, Boris can be reactive on a lead and does not get along well with other dogs. Energetic and affectionate, he requires an experienced handler to help him manage his anxiety. Ideally any children in his new home would be 10 years and over.

Buddy, a Bichon Frise, has been waiting 84 days for a new home. He is three years, and one month old.

He has some short-sightedness, which can make him a bit nervous, particularly when approached too swiftly. While he exhibits some food guarding behavior, Buddy thrives on attention and love when in the right environment. Buddy enjoys company, so is the perfect dog for someone who works from home.

Otis, who holds the title of the centre’s longest-stay resident, has been in care for 1,415 days - that’s almost four years. He’s five years, and three months old.

This gentle Yellow Labrador is trainable but struggles with new people and overstimulation. He is sensitive and very food driven. Otis is searching for a quiet, stable home where he can continue his training and build trust with his new family.

Olive, a fun-loving Black Labrador, has spent 184 days at the centre. She is four years, and five months.

She enjoys long walks and playing ball, but has trust issues with people and requires a patient owner who can allow her the space to bond at her own pace. She has lived with a cat and a rabbit in her previous home so could possibly live with either again but, although she can walk with friends, Olive would need to be the only dog in the home.

Lastly, 13-year-old Lilah, a lively French Bulldog, has been waiting for 68 days for her forever home.

Despite her age, she seeks a quiet environment free from other pets. Lilah would thrive in a household with children aged 10 and up, offering companionship and joy to her future family.

The team at Animals in Distress is reaching out to individuals with dog-handling experience or a passion for behavioral work to consider giving these special dogs a second chance.

“These are not beginner dogs,” said a spokesperson for the centre. “But for the right person, they’ll give back so much more than you can imagine. All they need is patience, understanding, and love.”

For those interested in adopting one of these remarkable dogs or seeking more information, contact the Animals in Distress kennel team at 01803 812121 or visit their website for more details.