The RSPCA is hoping to find the perfect home for Nellie the Great Dane who was rescued from the rogue rescue Save A Paw in Essex last year.
When she was rescued four-year-old Nellie weighed just 34.6kg and was in a terrible condition. She was also nervous and scared of the world.
But thanks to the loving care of staff at RSPCA Danaher Animal Home – she has learned to trust again and her beautiful character has shone through.
Nellie was one of a number of dogs rescued by the police and the RSPCA from appalling conditions at Save a Paw – while all the other dogs were signed over into the care of the RSPCA – the owner refused to relinquish ownership of the Great Dane.
The owner was jailed for five years following a court hearing last month and a deprivation order was made – which meant Nellie was legally allowed to be rehomed after the appeal period ended.
Now the RSPCA is hoping they can find the perfect home for Nellie who has been through so much in her young life.
Sam Garvey, Managing Director at the centre said: “We will never truly know what Nellie had to endure while at Save a Paw.
“When she first arrived, it was clear that life hadn’t always been kind to her. She was unsure of the world and needed time, patience, and gentle care to start feeling safe again.
“She was really skinny for a dog of her size – she weighed just 34.6 kg and overall she was in a really poor condition. She was nervous and scared of the world. Any new noise or unfamiliar place worried her. She would cower at quick movements, was hand shy and would be nervous of people she didn’t know – it was so heartbreaking to see.
“But every day we saw small steps of improvement which gave us hope and she gradually learned to trust again and even made dog friends.
“Her circle of friends grew as well as her body, she is now a whopping 54.6 kg! She’s gained a whole 20kg since being in our care.
“Thanks to the dedicated work of all the team here Nellie is a happy confident dog now, it’s an amazing transformation. You cannot help but have a huge smile on your face when you see her happily play off the lead with other dogs and she is also able to meet with new people.
“It’s a joy to see how this poor shut down dog has turned the corner. We are so proud of Nellie. She is a true survivor.
“Nellie has begun to show us the wonderful dog she truly is. Once she gets to know you, her goofy and affectionate personality shines through. She absolutely loves a snuggle and will happily lean into you for comfort and attention — a true gentle giant with so much love to give.”
Nellie is now ready to find her perfect forever home. She would do best in a quiet, adult-only household where she can continue to grow in confidence at her own pace.
She will need to be the only dog in the home and would benefit from an experienced owner, ideally someone with Great Dane experience who understands the needs of this incredible breed.
