‘London’s loneliest dog’ still searching for home after more than 500 days in kennels

Hattie is the longest-standing resident at Southridge Animal Centre

A rescue dog that has spent 500 days in kennels is still waiting for her forever home. Two-year-old cocker spaniel Hattie has spent 18 months at the the RSPCA's Southridge Animal Centre in Potters Bar, first arriving in August 2020 after her previous owners struggled with her behaviour. Hattie was later adopted in December 2020 but was soon returned to the centre because they were unable to cope with her. Her year-and-a-half stay at the centre is the longest of the 33 dogs currently housed there. Cathie Ward, an Animal Care Assistant at Southridge, told MyLondon: "She's an absolutely beautiful girl, and unfortunately we have struggled to find her a home because of her additional needs." With cocker spaniels being worker dogs, Hattie has high energy levels so the RSPCA is looking for experienced dog owners to take her on. Ward said: "She does get frustrated quite easily - she's very active. "She does like being around people, but it takes her some time to actually get to know you. You can't do too much too soon with her. "It's just finding that experienced home with someone who's willing to actually work with her. "With the breed that she is, she's got a high drive and she's constantly on the go. "So she needs that stimulation and enrichment in the home to help her." [caption id="attachment_315183" align="alignnone" width="732"] Two-year-old Hattie has been waiting for her forever home for 18 months (RSPCA)[/caption] There are some requirements for a suitable home for Hattie though. Ideal adopters would live in a rural or semi-rural area with a spacious and secure garden and Hattie will need to be the only pet in the home, with no children. It is also hoped new owners will take Hattie to behaviour classes to continue her training. Ward said: "Once she knows people, she does calm down a lot - she's lovely and very cuddly, but it does take a while for her to get to that stage and to trust you." The RSPCA would like any potential adopters to visit the pooch at the centre a number of times before they take her home. If you'd like more information on Hattie click here. Related links:

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