Stray dogs from an idyllic Greek island are being rehomed locally, thanks to a Wokingham-based organisation.
The Dog Trouble Foundation in Heathlands Road was established by Jo Cottrell seven years ago with the aim of providing education for dogs, as well as for people in need of support.
The main purpose of the Foundation is to help reduce the number of rescue dogs staying long term in rescue organisations due to behaviour or health issues.
She told Wokingham, Today: “We basically focus on rescuing and rehabilitating and rehoming dogs that have health or behaviour issues in the UK.
She also supports rescue dogs from Zakynthos in Greece.
“We will take on dogs that have got issues, and are struggling to find homes in if they were “We take a very small number at a time.
“What makes us unique as a rescue is we first get people, potential adopters, to come and meet us.
“We will then assess if they are the right people for the dog that we’re rehoming.
“We look at their energy, we look at their lifestyle, we look at the home environment, we look at their experience as dog owners.
“If we think it potentially is the right match, we will then start coaching sessions with them where they come here, and they start to build a relationship with the dog so we can set them up to succeed, not fail.”
Rudy is one recent success story for the foundation.
He had been dumped in a shelter in Zakynthos in a terrible state, malnourished and suffering with leishmaniasis.
He had spent three years in the shelter and was overlooked due to his looks and being a strong dog.
He joined the rehab team at Dog Trouble in October 2021, where he has learned to walk respectfully on a lead, and to interact with other dogs.
Rudy’s new owner is Sharron Moffatt.
She said: “I live with a mental health condition so having a dog in my life gives me a purpose and he’s just such a joy and easy.
“The good thing about adopting dogs from here is they’re so balanced because they’ve had so much rehabilitation.
“Adopting dogs is the best thing I have ever done.”
As well as outright adoption, the Foundation also offers sponsorships for people who cannot adopt a dog for whatever reason.
It also hosts ‘pack walk’ fundraisers every month, the details of which can be found on its social media channels.
www.dogtroublefoundation.co.uk
BooBoo
Booboo is originally from Zakynthos, Greece and had been in the shelter for a year.
She was quite shy and is now building her confidence.
She loves other dogs and people, but is a bit shy when meeting new people.
Booboo needs guidance and direction, and ideally in a house with another dog where she will respond to the guidance of the other dog.
Booboo would not be suitable to live with young children but will be fine with older, calmer children.
She needs an owner who will continue to provide her with the right guidance as she continues to become a balanced, confident dog.
Zak
Zak is also originally from Zakynthos, Greece and was adopted in the UK as a puppy.
Sadly, he was not given any direction or leadership, and started to exhibit some bad habits.
Zak is a submissive, alert and active dog. He loves his walks/cycles and would need an owner who is active and enjoys the outdoors.
He enjoys playing with other dogs but needs leadership and direction when approaching new dogs on lead as he gets very excited.
He can live with other dogs but is also able to be an only dog. Zak would not be suitable to live with children or cats.
Zak needs an owner who will be his leader and set him up to succeed, not fail.
If you are willing to put the time and effort in you will be rewarded with a real sweetheart.
Kev
Kev was also originally from Zakynthos, and was malnourished when he arrived at the shelter, hence he had started to develop some bad habits around food.
Kev has been at Dog Trouble for rehabilitation and is now ready for a home with experienced dog owners.
He has a big heart, loves humans, loves water and playing football. He is an independent dog, with a high scent drive and although can interact with some dogs, will need to be the only dog in the household.
Kev will need an active home with someone who can provide him with activities where he has to use his nose and brain. He loves dog agility.
He is a smart, sensitive and loving dog who will bring you so much joy if you are willing to put the work in.
