Charming Staffie wins everyone’s hearts

There’s no denying that Turk the Staffie is a charmer. With his big brown eyes and affectionate nature, he’s a very popular boy at Battersea, and wins everyone over with his good behaviour and love of cuddles.

While there is no time limit on how long a dog can stay at Battersea the average stint is 45 days, yet today is six year old Turk’s 99th day in the charity’s care. Staff are now hoping he will get his lucky break and find a home before he hits 100 days.

His story is reminiscent of fellow Staffie Marcel, who appears in episode four of Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs, on ITV1 at 8pm tonight.  Like Turk, Marcel didn’t enjoy life in kennels, and spent time in a foster home and in Battersea’s offices to give him a break. Marcel was also a long-term resident, clocking up 130 days in kennels. Turk and Marcel even look similar, with their dashing dark coats and white highlights, and both like the sound of their own voice.

Battersea’s staff are now hoping viewers who fall in love with Marcel on screen will also be charmed by his doppelganger Turk. His foster carer Sarah Owen believes he definitely deserves to find a loving new home. She says: “Turk is loyal, warm and easy-going, and he’d make a perfect pet. He quickly settled into our foster home and has enjoyed being part of the family, alongside my female dog and 11 year old son.”

Like Marcel, Turk’s favourite hobby is having his tummy rubbed, and receiving a fuss from his favourite people. Sarah adds: “He loves nothing better than spending time with you and cuddling up for lots of affection. Turk does have his lively moments too and likes going for walks with a tennis ball in his mouth - every so often he’ll even let you throw it for him!"

If you are interested in Turk, you can visit his online profile here or call 0843 509 4444 (Cost 5p per minute from a BT landline, mobile charges may vary)