Battersea helps a sensitive soul gain confidence

Nervous Stewie is looking for a new family to help him overcome his fears

Stewie the Mongrel certainly cuts an impressive figure with his big paws and chunky frame, and weighing in at over six stone you’d expect him to confidently stroll around the Battersea kennels. However this sensitive soul is nervous of new people, and staff are hoping they can find him an owner who can help him relax and enjoy life.

Viewers of Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs on ITV1 will certainly notice the similarity between Stewie and nervous Benny the Mongrel, who struggled to meet new people, and hid in his kennel whenever anyone came to see him.

One year old Stewie arrived at Battersea in April after his owners said he was too big and boisterous, but his nervous nature has meant that after 150 days he is still waiting to catch the eye of a new owner. Both Benny and Stewie have been cared for at Battersea by Rehoming and Welfare Assistant Laura Cushway, who explains: “I love the sensitive ones, and Stewie and Benny are very similar. They are both big dogs who are very sensitive and can be scared or nervous around new people. However they are actually real softies once you get to know them, and you just need to win their trust.”

Stewie can be scared when new people approach him and can sometimes bark to warn them that he’s unsure of the situation. Laura explains: “Despite being a bit nervous Stewie does make friends, and can get attached to people, especially men. He can be really goofy and funny when you get to know him, so he needs patient owners who can take the time to help him settle in. He’d also love an active home as he still has a bit of puppy fat to burn off.”

Stewie can live in any location and could possibly live with teenagers, but he would prefer not to live with a cat. Staff are unsure of his heritage, but believe he may have some Shar Pei in his blood, as he has a blue tongue. Laura explains: “It can be really hard to tell exactly what breeds are in a Mongrel like Stewie, and while we think there is likely to be a guarding breed in his family, he’s probably a bit of everything. One thing we know for certain is that he has a big heart, and just needs someone to love him.”

If you can give sensitive Stewie the chance he needs, you can see his full profile here and get in touch by calling 0843 509 4444 (Cost 5p per minute from a BT landline, mobile charges may vary.)

Find out more about helping dogs who are nervous of new people here