Rescued Husky Finds Loving Home

A desperate start

In May 2022, RSPCA Inspector Jo found Lucy living with her sister, their mum and two other grown-up huskies. The dogs were being kept in a narrow hallway without enough room to exercise and were in poor condition. They were hungry and thirsty, and it didn't seem as though they'd been walked for a long time.

Jo rescued the two grown-up dogs first. Their owner promised to take better care of Lucy, her sister and their mum. But when Jo returned two weeks later, things hadn't improved. She knew she had to act fast and rushed the three dogs to a nearby vet.

The vet found that Lucy hadn't been properly cared for. Her fur was mucky, she was covered in fleas and had ulcers on her paws. She also needed treatment for worms and kidney problems.

Learning to trust

Lucy moved to RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre for more care. Alongside her physical recovery, staff began helping her adjust to her new surroundings.

“Lucy was so nervous when she arrived,” says RSPCA vet Kate. “But staff took her out to quiet areas and began to gain her trust.”

As Lucy gradually recovered, the team decided that a foster home could give her the chance to experience family life while she continued building her confidence.

A little help from a foster friend

Experienced foster carers Penny and Adrian welcomed Lucy into their home, where she met Lenny, their adopted XL Bully and a former foster dog himself.

Lucy was wary at times, but she quickly formed a close bond with Lenny.

“She always wanted to be close to Lenny and took comfort in having him around,” says Penny. “She gained trust in humans again by watching Lenny, her role model.”

The pair went on trips and holidays together, and Penny and Adrian watched Lucy's confidence grow. She began allowing the family to stroke her and show her affection.

After around 10 months, it was time for Lucy to move on.

“It was very hard for us all to say goodbye to our beautiful girl Lucy,” says Penny. “However, we knew that she would find a lovely forever home.”

And there was one thing they knew Lucy's next home needed: another dog for company.

Right at home

Meanwhile, in Cardiff, Tracey felt her dog Enzo could do with a friend. She wanted to give a rescue dog a chance, and when she found Lucy online, she applied that day. The whole family travelled to Somerset with Enzo to meet her.

Lucy played well with Enzo, although she needed some time out after a while as he could be very energetic. But when they visited again, things went much better.

“On the second visit, she recognised me, offering me her paw,” says Tracey. “We drove her home with us that same day!”

Lucy was curious about her new surroundings, but it took her time to settle into family life. She needed some coaxing to explore parts of the house and showed little interest in Enzo or her toys.

Then, on a family holiday in Cornwall, something began to change. Tracey spent two days gently encouraging Lucy with her toys, including a cuddly toy called Taco. Eventually, Lucy picked Taco up and brought it back.

From then on, her playful side began to emerge. She started playing ball and tug of war and running around on a long lead. She also began enjoying life with Enzo, and the pair now love playing together. Affection is still on her terms, but she'll now sit close to Tracey, enjoy belly rubs and let her groom her. And she's certainly found her voice.

“She’s got so much sass,” says Tracey. “Like a lot of huskies, she loves to moan, howl and sing.”

Today, Lucy loves sunbathing in the garden and spending time with her family.

“Lucy gives so much back. She’s brought us a lot of happiness and contentment,” says Tracey. “I know she’s only one dog, but I’m proud that I’ve changed her life.”