359 dogs walked out of Battersea’s Brands Hatch centre and into a new loving home last year – but poor Honey wasn’t one of them. Although many dogs have barely settled into the centre before they are snatched up, a few – like Honey – take a little longer. While they stay at the shelter, the staff strive to give them as many of the comforts of home as possible; especially for the more long term residents.
Honey is a Jack Russell Chihuahua mix, and has spent the last two years at Battersea Brands Hatch. Since Honey is eight years old, that means she has spent a quarter of her life in rescue kennels. To cheer her up, staff threw her a party to mark her 730th day at the shelter – though the milestone is not a cause for celebration.
With her genetic mix, Honey has a lot of enthusiasm from her Terrier side, but has the sensitivity typical of a Chihuahua. New experiences can make Honey nervous, but when she’s at ease, staff have seen Honey’s true nature, and know her to be a lot of fun.
Given Honey’s temporary anxiety when facing new situations, Honey’s new owners will need to give her time and space to become comfortable and confident around them. Any potential new family will have to understand Honey’s initial reserve, and take things slowly until she gets to know them and comes out of her shell.
Could you be the one to let Honey’s true loving, energetic nature shine through?
Anna Hemmings, Centre Manager at Battersea Brands Hatch, said: “Honey has spent two long years with us at Brands Hatch. As lovely as it is seeing her every day and seeing the improvement from her specialised training we provide her, we all just really want Honey to go to a good home.
“Honey is very sweet with a bit of an anxious side but we all know once she’s comfortable in her environment, she can be very lively and energetic! Ideally she’s looking for someone who lives in a quiet rural area where she has the freedom to roam around in peace.”
For more information on Honey please contact bbh.rehomers@battersea.org.uk