Teign rescue dog Teddy needs new home

AN Albanian slum dog had his very own Independence Day when he was released from quarantine — with help from Echo readers.

The lucky pooch spent six months recuperating in kennels after being found trapped and close to death.

Jill Proffitt, 58, who is the founding member of Teignmouth’s Animal Rescue Centre, and colleague Jenny Bell, 29, found the tortured puppy in a slum and rushed him 2,000 miles back to the UK.

The Echo reported in February how the charity needed to raise £3,200 to bring him out of quarantine at Foredowne Kennels in Kingskerswell.

And with the help of our readers, Jill and Jenny managed to raise the whole amount.

“We had a fantastic response from caring local people,” she said. “Overall generous readers donated £800, which is a huge amount. The rest was all gained through fundraising. We have held car boot sales and earned money through recycling and knitting groups.”

Jill has been regularly visiting Teddy in quarantine and has watched his health improve. “He has a grown in size and has a healthy coat of fur,” she said. “His personality is also really starting to shine through.

“Whenever I arrive he always jumps up, with his tail wagging, pleased to see me and is very interested in the world around him.

“He has befriended a boxer dog through the bars of the kennel, which is very sweet.”

Although Teddy will be staying with Jill for the time being, she is looking for a permanent home for him. She said: “We need an exceptional home for Teddy.

“Someone who will love and care for him and give him some extra time. Ideally somebody who will be at home for most of the day. Potential owners are welcome to come out and see him.”

Jill and Jenny are working towards educating people in Albania about animal welfare.

“Obviously we can’t rescue all the dogs in Albania,” said Jill. “So we are encouraging people to treating animals kindly by helping to set up animal shelters and by contacting Albanian media.

“We are taking pet food to some kind people who have turned an old pig sty into a cat and dog shelter, and would be grateful if anyone can donate some.”

For more information contact Jill on 01626 775869.