Two rescue Greyhounds at Battersea's Old Windsor centre are proving that sometimes all you need is a friend as they begin their search for a new home, together.
Phoebe, a three-year-old Greyhound whose story is featured in the new series of ITV’s For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond, finds the world an overwhelming place. New people, unfamiliar spaces and kennel life left her feeling anxious and withdrawn. That is, until four-year-old Alfie came along.
Alfie is a fellow Battersea Greyhound with confidence to share. Outgoing and sociable, he is Phoebe’s opposite in every way. But these differences are exactly why Battersea’s canine experts introduced the pair. They recognised that his zest for life could be just what Phoebe needed to slowly come her out of her shell – and they were right.
With Alfie by her side, and the dedication of her care team, Phoebe has made small but significant strides in her confidence.
Holly Tyson, Rehoming and Welfare Assistant at Battersea, said: “Phoebe has come on in leaps and bounds since being introduced to Alfie. He absolutely dotes on her and she regularly looks to him for reassurance, which he offers by gently leaning his head on her side.
“Thanks to Alfie’s support, Pheobe is growing more relaxed around people she knows. Her tail’s started to wag, and she now even gets the occasional burst of ‘Greyhound zoomies’. She's still got a way to go, but in the right home with Alfie’s steady presence, we’ve got no doubt that she’ll blossom.”
They are proof that for some dogs, having a companion isn't just a ‘nice to have’, it can make all the difference.
But bonded pairs like Alfie and Phoebe can spend much longer than average at Battersea waiting for a home. Deciding to get a dog is a big decision, and many prospective owners aren’t looking to take on the commitment of a pair.
Zenya Green, Dog Rehoming Team Leader at Battersea, said: “We often have a harder time finding the right home for our bonded pairs – especially our Greyhounds. There's a lot of hesitation around adopting bigger dogs, with people assuming they need more space, more exercise, and more training than most. But Greyhounds will surprise you. They're often calm, gentle and remarkably easy to live with. A couple of short walks a day and a warm spot on the sofa is genuinely all many of them ask for.”
Alfie and Phoebe are looking for a patient and understanding owner who will give them the time and space to settle in at their own pace. A quiet location with a secure private garden would be ideal for Phoebe as she continues to work on her.
If you are interested in giving Alfie and Phoebe their second chance, please contact Battersea Old Windsor's rehoming team at bow.rehomers@battersea.org.uk
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