RSPCA urges people to adopt 'gentle giant' big dogs

Roxy, a Cane Corso, is said to be looking for a home with a garden to chill out, play and explore

RSPCA staff across the South East are urging people to consider adopting a big dog as part of the charity's annual Adoptober rehoming campaign.

Four-year-old Luna, a Shar Pei, has had just one adoption application in the 238 days she has been at the Mount Noddy Animal Centre in Chichester, while Roxy the Cane Corso from Surrey and husky Elsa from Kent are also searching for homes.

The focus is on big dogs as they can wait seven times longer than smaller dogs to find a forever home, said the charity.

"Gentle giants, big softies and larger than life characters - we've got every kind of big dog, each one is unique, special and deserves a second chance of happiness," said an RSPCA spokesperson.

Luna is four-and-a-half years old and has been at the Mount Noddy Animal Centre in Chichester for 238 days

Patterdale terrier Jenny was handed over to the West Sussex centre when she was just eight months old, and has now been there nearly a year.

Chichester animal care assistant Clare Mansfield said: "Jenny is such a sweet girl once she gets to know you, she is a very affectionate and a cheeky character who loves to play, give kisses and leap up onto your lap for a snuggle."

At Millbrook Animal Centre in Woking, Surrey, three-year-old Roxy is looking for a new owner after her previous owner became homeless and could no longer care for her.

"We are crossing our fingers that this Adoptober the perfect home for Roxy will come forward and we can't wait to hear about her adventures in the future," said Millbrook centre manager Oli Whiteway.

At the Leybourne Animal Centre in Kent, nine-year-old Elsa is looking for a committed owner after arriving at the branch in an emaciated state.

Kennel supervisor Laura Bowbrick said: "Elsa has come on so well in our care and will be a wonderful addition as a cherished family pet.

"We are looking for an owner who has commitment, understanding, and patience who will give Elsa the love and attention she truly deserves."

The Adoptober appeal comes as the RSPCA says it is facing a "rehoming crisis", with record numbers of rescued dogs in care.

In 2024, the RSPCA rehomed 26,167 animals across all its centres.

Husky Elsa has been at the Leybourne branch since January

RSPCA pet behaviour expert Dr Sam Gaines said: "Our unique and special dogs may not be the right pet for everyone.

"Some need some extra help to help them recover from their past, some are misunderstood because of the way they look, some need quiet homes with no other pets and others need owners who can keep up with their boundless zest for life.

"We know the right people are out there and urgently need to hear from them."