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Right Dog Right Owner

A tale of dog meets owner, with a happy, waggy ending

Jonny with Bonnie, one of thousands of four-legged friends helped by Dogs Trust to find her forever home

It was fourth time lucky for Collie cross pup Bonnie when future owner Jonny spotted her in a Dogs Trust rehoming centre in Salisbury. Beautiful Bonnie had three previous owners before being given up for adoption through Dogs Trust, so she was more than ready to find her forever home.

Wag Of Approval

Southampton-based Jonny was looking for a pal for his 14-year-old terrier. Jonny said, "Ted was getting on a bit so I thought a younger dog would put a spring in his step."

The plan worked. Ted was quick to give an excited wag of approval when he first met eight-month-old Bonnie.

"Despite the age gap, the two of them were soon happily playing," smiled Jonny.

"Bonnie was a little nervous when she first came home, but, with lots of company and reassurance, she quickly grew in confidence. I let the two dogs bond first, and that worked well. They became best pals."

Bonnie is one of thousands of four-legged friends helped to find their forever home by Dogs Trust - which has 21 centres across the UK - with support from players of People's Postcode Lottery. To date players have raised more than £20 Million for the charity - money that is helping transform the lives of dogs and their owners across the country.

Jonny spent the first year following Bonnie's adoption training plan and finding ways to keep her busy. He said, "Being part collie and part lurcher, Bonnie needs a lot of stimulation, so I took her to agility classes once she was old enough. She loved that from the start, becoming a calmer, more relaxed dog. It was a real turning point for her.

"Bonnie is now five and has grown up to be a lovely dog. Mind you, she is definitely a pampered pooch insisting on sleeping in my bed, despite my best efforts!"

Jonny was so impressed by Dogs Trust that, when a vacancy came up to join the fundraising team, he jumped at the chance. And right by his side in his new role is Bonnie. He said, "She's such an amazing example of what Dogs Trust, and the right owner, can achieve. I am so proud of us!"

Making A Difference

People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like Dogs Trust make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities which our players support.