This is Benji (on the left). He’s a Patterdale Terrier up for adoption. It’s been seven years since ten-year-old Benji had a home. And that’s because Benji has diabetes. Unlike most dogs, he needs an insulin injection every 12 hours.
“He’s such an adorable little scruff,” said Mandy Leigh, chairwoman for the Eastleigh Animal Sanctuary in Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, where Benji has lived since 2008.
“He loves attention and sits at the front of the sanctuary and says hello to everyone who comes in.”
“But when people find out he’s diabetic they just don’t want to know. I just don’t want him to pass away without ever having a real family.”
Benji was actually adopted just four months after arriving at Eastleigh Animal Sanctuary. But the owners quickly found out they couldn’t deal with the demands of his insulin needs.
“Britain’s most unwanted dog”
Mandy said: “When he first came to us he had been sheltered inside his whole life and didn’t know how to socialise. He was quite the big-headed little so-and-so, but he’s settled down a bit as he’s gotten older.
“He’s still a real character. He really thinks he’s the bees knees and expects everyone else to love him too.
“Terriers are known for being stubborn dogs and if he thinks he can get his own way he will certainly try.
“That’s why it’s important that he goes to somebody who has some experience looking after dogs.”
Benji must be Britain’s most unwanted dog,” said Mandy. “We should get him a little rosette on his cage.”
The cost of Benji’s care
Some possible owners might be put off by the costs incurred by Benji’s diabetes, but Mandy is so keen to see Benji in a nice home that she has offered to pay his vet bills after he’s been adopted.
Mandy knows that Benji’s needs can be demanding, but she hopes that the right owner is out there somewhere.
“Benji’s an old man now and all he needs is an understanding home where can watch television and go for a toddle outside.
“I hope he can go to an older retired lady or gentleman who will be free to give him his injections and won’t have little children running around the house.
“I just don’t want him to have to spend the rest of his life in the sanctuary.”
Want to adopt this adorable little man? Enquire here.
Image source: mirror.co.uk.
