'Most unwanted' dog finds new home in Keighley after four-year wait

Jake settles in to his new home in Keighley

A dog once dubbed "Britain's most unwanted" has finally found a home, a charity has confirmed.

Jake, a lurcher, first arrived at Dogs Trust Leeds aged one in 2015. He was found a home, but returned in 2019 as the owner's circumstances had changed.

After spending more than four years at the centre, he has now been taken in by a couple from Keighley.

Kevin Johnson, who cared for Jake at the centre, said the team was "delighted" to see him happily rehomed.

Jake had been passed around several homes before arriving at the Dogs Trust centre.

The charity said he lacked confidence around other dogs and had very specific rehoming requirements, which had put off potential adopters.

Dogs Trust staff bid a fond farewell to Jake on his adoption day

The team in Leeds created a training programme to build Jake's trust around people and socialise him around other dogs.

Keighley couple Veronica and Keith said they felt an instant connection with Jake after seeing a video of him enjoying a walk in Wensleydale with one of his carers.

Veronica said: "He'd had a tough start to life and lacked in confidence, but it was clear from our first meeting that he was an affectionate and friendly dog who just needed someone to give him a chance.

"The introduction process was quite long, but it was important we moved at a pace Jake was happy with, and the staff at Dogs Trust Leeds supported us through it all.

"We love having Jake in our home. It feels like he's been with us forever, and we couldn't imagine life without him."

New owners Veronica and Keith said they felt an instant bond with Jake

Mr Johnson added: "Four years is too long for any dog to be with us, and we were desperate to find him his forever home.

"Jake literally bounced out of the car, straight into his new home and on to the sofa.

"I'm not ashamed to say there was quite the lump in my throat. Seeing him happily and confidently standing at his new home front door with his family as we left was so emotional."

Jake's carer Kevin Johnson admitted it was emotional to see him go