Adopt a rescue dog from Battersea in April

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has a long history of caring for dogs which have been abandoned or whose owners were unable to cope. Unfortunately many dogs at Battersea arrived because their previous owners only considered what they wanted their dog to look like - not its background and behaviour patterns. As a result Battersea has seen a rise in the number of pure breed dogs it receives as well as a rise in the number of dogs that need country homes. The most popular dogs purchased by misinformed town dwellers are, incredibly, Border Collies.

These dogs love mental and physical stimulation - they are bored silly in the city and need space and air and things to chase. Other breeds unhappy with life in the city are Jack Russell Terriers (miniature whirlwinds), Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers (both have endless reserves of energy and stamina), Springer Spaniels (originally bred for retrieving they have energy and stamina reserves to rival the Labradors and Golden Retrievers) and Lurchers (a very strong chase instinct coupled with very bad recall means a three legged Lurcher in the city). Battersea has also lately seen a rise in Japanese and American Akitas. These awe inspiring dogs were originally used as hunters in Japan, therefore they have a very low tolerance of other dogs and so need to move to an area with a low dog population. These are examples of some of the breeds which are unhappy in the city, and over the next few months dogs like these will be looking for places to live where they are more at home, with loving owners who can give them the attention they need. This month we're looking to rehome Erin and Dolly.

Name: Erin Age: 6-12 months old Breed: Mongrel Reference: 11/00769

Sweet Erin came to Battersea as a stray and is looking for a family who can give her all the cuddles and walks she deserves. Erin loves life and everyone in it and goes about everything with a waggy tail.

This lovely lady is clever and obedient and would love to find owners who can give her some further training and give her lots to do. She has wonderful character and makes you smile. Erin could live with another dog and could live with cats. Whoever takes Erin into their home will be rewarded with a fun and friendly companion. If you can give Erin a second chance please contact Battersea Dogs & Cats Home on 020 76279234 or email rehoming@battersea.org.uk.

Name: Dolly Age: 1-2 years Breed: Australian Cattle Dog (cross) Reference: 11/20217

Dolly is an affectionate and sweet dog who loves nothing more than having a good cuddle. When she's not looking for a fuss, Dolly adores playing with her toys and having a good run around. She's a clever girl and works well for treats so will be a pleasure to train. She already knows SIT but would love to learn some new tricks, and would excel at agility and obedience if given the chance. This lovely lady dreams of a quiet, countryside home with active owners who enjoy getting out and about on walks as Dolly loves her countryside ambles. Although she's friendly with other dogs on walks, Dolly would rather be the only one in her new house. Whoever takes Dolly into their lives will be rewarded with a fun and loving companion. If you can offer Dolly the home she deserves please contact Battersea Dogs & Cats Home on 01784 494443 or email bow.rehomers@battersea.org.uk.