Hellesdon: Chase the rescue dog to get Christmas to remember

Mike Palmer who gave Chase the dog a forever home says Christmas will be special this year

A dog who found a permanent home after spending five years at an animal shelter will get his best Christmas this year, his new owner said.

Chase, a Malinois and German shepherd cross, was taken in by the Pact animal and wildlife sanctuary in Hingham, Norfolk, at the age of 20 months.

Mike Palmer from Hellesdon, Norwich, said he "felt a bond" with Chase while volunteering at the centre.

"Essentially, he's the one rescuing me," Mr Palmer said.

Several unsuccessful attempts were made by the PACT sanctuary to rehome Chase.

Mr Palmer, a former civil servant who retired eight years ago due to treatment for a brain tumour, said he and his wife had lost their own dog in April.

"When I had brain surgery in 2015, I had to re-learn how to do everything again, so there's a path here that I can relate to," he said.

"After walking about 30m (98ft) or so, I just felt a bond."

He said Chase was now much calmer thanks to "lots of love and attention" - and long walks twice a day.

Chase is a much calmer dog now, says his new owner

He said Christmas would see Chase very much included in the celebrations.

"He'll probably get an extra juicy bone for Christmas and a decent walk," he said.

"It's a fine act being a doting father to a dog enjoying every day with us."

He said the animal rescue charity was also impressed with Chase's progress.

Chase's owner says the dog "rescued" him too

Mr Palmer added: "I have to get out of bed every day even when I might be feeling a little depressed, due to my brain injury.

"I have to because he needs the exercise and the fresh air helps my health too. He's made a massive difference.

"He makes me laugh, makes me frustrated sometimes and he's seen a dog trainer too but essentially, he's the one rescuing me."