Blue Cross is searching for a special home for a dog who spent his entire life in isolation before coming into the charity’s care.

Lhasa Apso Jeremy had no human affection for nine years, confined to a concrete kennel with no windows in a breeding facility. When the facility was shut down, he was taken to Blue Cross’s rehoming centre in Wherstead, Suffolk, alone, matted, and terrified of people.

After 200 days in their care, the team has helped him overcome his fears, and now they’re on a mission to find him the loving retirement home he deserves.

From Fear to Hope

Hannah Ward, Rehabilitation Trainer and Behaviour Advisor at Blue Cross, recalled the heartbreaking moment Jeremy arrived:

“He was in such a sorry state and absolutely terrified—we didn’t know what the future held for him. It was heartbreaking. He wouldn’t come near anyone, had never been walked, and had only ever slept on straw in his concrete kennel, sharing a bowl with other dogs. He had never known a toy, a comfy bed, or even his own bowl.”

For the first two weeks, Jeremy froze in fear, shaking whenever anyone entered his kennel. Even mealtimes were distressing, as he was too scared to eat from his own dish.

But with patience and care, small changes started to emerge.

“The first time we saw him play with a toy, it was magical. Then, after another month, he started taking walks on his own—before that, he wouldn’t leave the kennel unless other dogs were with him,” said Hannah.

Realising Jeremy needed a quieter environment to build his confidence, the team placed him with a foster carer named Linda, where he continued to blossom.

“He used to be scared of traffic, but now he loves going for walks. He even sleeps in the same room as Linda, whereas before he would isolate himself. She cooks him fresh chicken and feeds him by hand, something he never would have allowed before.”

A Special Home for a Special Dog

Jeremy still carries the scars of his past. Blue Cross is looking for a calm and patient home where he can live out his golden years at his own pace.

“After ten years of damage, his fears are still very real. His new owners will need to respect that he may never want to be touched, but he enjoys being in the same room as people,” said Hannah.

Jeremy would benefit from a home with another dog who is comfortable around people and can help him feel safe. A quiet household with adults over 16, where he can settle without pressure, would be ideal.

Foster carers like Linda are vital in helping Blue Cross rehabilitate pets like Jeremy. The charity provides full training, equipment, and food for fosterers.

To learn more about fostering, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/volunteer.

If you think you could offer Jeremy the loving home he needs, visit bluecross.org.uk or contact Blue Cross Suffolk at suffolk@bluecross.org.uk.