Yogi

Poor Yogi was found in a terrible state. He was spotted by chance during a police search of the Trent River in Gunthorpe. Curled up in the footwell of a car, he was trying to lie comfortably on top of old beer cans and plastic bottles. We were told his owner was in the pub and was currently living in the car with Yogi. Considering it was June, heatstroke was a serious concern.

We got him out of the car, and a brief look told us Yogi was underweight, dehydrated, and suffering from severe skin issues. One of our dedicated trustees asked the owner to sign Yogi over to us so we could help him. It was entirely likely that he would otherwise have been put to sleep. That same trustee took Yogi into her home, getting him fed and keeping him safe until we could get him to the vet the next morning.

Miraculously, Yogi’s blood tests were clear. However, he was suffering from a flea infestation and sarcoptic mange, which meant he had to be isolated from other dogs until he completed treatment. At the vet, he had the first of many medicated baths to bring his skin back under control. His microchip scan listed him as eight years old, younger than we had expected given his condition, and named simply “puppy 12”. This broke our hearts. Poor Yogi was likely one of many dogs bred for profit.

Once he was settled into his own secluded kennel chalet, we spent time sitting with Yogi, talking to him and promising that we would get him back on his feet. He would have nutritious food to rebuild his strength, and as many medicated baths as it took until his fur grew back thick and shiny. His story reached so many people, and it wasn’t long before he began receiving care packages filled with toys and soft blankets. Yogi adored his new collection and would proudly bring his toys over to staff and volunteers to show them off. He soon made himself at home, happily watching the world go by.

Before Yogi could begin looking for a permanent home, he had to make one final trip to the vet. His skin had cleared and his fleas were gone, but he needed one last operation. This one left him feeling a little lighter…

In his new home in beautiful Devon, Yogi is treated like royalty. He enjoys sunbathing in the garden, lounging on his bed after carefully selecting a toy from his extensive collection, and prancing around the fields and woodland near his home. His new Mum and Dad absolutely adore him; his sweet, affectionate nature has made him the perfect companion. He has settled in beautifully, even sneaking onto the humans’ bed for a well-deserved snooze.

Yogi is one of many dogs who has not let his past define his future. He takes everything in his stride and lives life to the fullest, as we all should.