Meet Hank – A Survivor Ready for His Forever Home!

Hank, the loving Staffordshire Bull Terrier Cross, was rescued from a property in the West Midlands, after being subjected to cruelty and neglect. Due to ongoing legal proceedings, we have been unable to share Hank's story, until now..

When Hank was rescued at just 6 months of age, he was emaciated – weighing in at just 8kg, dirty, and ‘very hungry’.

Tragically, Hank wasn’t alone – he was discovered alongside five other severely malnourished dogs in a home, and heartbreakingly, one had already succumbed to starvation.

Among the survivors was Hank, who was removed from the property by the RSPCA.

He was severely malnourished, with a low body score and his ribs and spine were visible.

Hank was one of three puppies cruelly locked in a small crate, starving and neglected, despite his condition, he remained friendly and eager for human affection.

In cases of severe neglect and cruelty such as this, the RSPCA takes legal action against the owners, which means that until the court case is resolved, the animals are required to remain in our care, where they receive the love and medical attention they desperately need but are unable to be rehomed.

Sadly, these cases can last for many months, with some court proceedings taking over a year to complete, meaning that unless a suitable foster home is found, the animals will remain in temporary accommodations such as kennels or catteries.

Today, we are pleased to announce that Hank's owner has been taken to court, and Hank is now free from the neglect and cruelty he endured. After spending 7 months in our care awaiting his court date, he is finally ready to find his forever home.

Hank’s story is one of survival, recovery, and the unwavering dedication of our team.

The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home is an independently funded charity that works closely with the RSPCA, often taking in animals like Hank from inspectors.

These animals are usually some of the most vulnerable and neglected animals that we encounter.

This case is truly heart breaking, seeing the dogs removed from this property in such poor condition, only highlights the importance of responsible animal ownership.

We are so pleased that the courts have recognised the severity of the case. Now these dogs can finally begin their journey towards finding loving homes.”

John Radcliffe - RSPCA investigating officer

Despite all Hank has been through in his young life, his loving nature has never wavered. He’s a gentle and affectionate boy who adores his carer’s and has made some wonderful doggy friends too.

Hank has some adorable quirks – he will often carry a teddy for comfort, and seems to enjoy being sung to sleep.

Understandably, due to spending some time at the centre, he can have some reservations and prefers the gentle approach, but his eyes light up when he sees his favourite people, and he’s always ready to offer a wagging tail and a snuggle.

Hank’s not just looking for a home; he’s looking for a special person to share his heart with.

Hank’s story is sadly just one of hundreds of animals just like him awaiting the outcome of their criminal trials.

You can help support animals like Hank by donating towards their essential medical treatments, nutritious food and the rehabilitation these animals desperately need. Every donation, big or small, directly impacts the lives of animals in our care.

With Hank’s story in mind, we cannot emphasise enough the need for foster homes.

Fostering an animal like Hank, allows us to give them the best chance of experiencing a comfortable and nurturing home environment, while they await the outcome of their trial – this can be crucial for their physical and emotional health during such uncertain times.

You can play a vital role in their journey, by becoming a fosterer for CDCH.

With your help, we can ensure that Hank and other animals like him get the second chance they deserve. Let’s come together to give these animals the best chance of the future they’ve always dreamed of!