Country's oldest homeless dog finds a new owner

A dog who was one of the country's oldest homeless animals has finally found a new family.

The Dogs Trust appealed for a home for Tonks, a 17-year-old Jack Russell Terrier who is the human equivalent of 119 years old. He was being cared for by Dogs Trust Kenilworth after being found as a stray. Not only is he the most mature dog at the Honiley-based rehoming centre; he was also the oldest dog across all Dogs Trust rehoming centres looking for his forever home.

Tonks was well above the the average age of a Dogs Trust dog, which is usually around 4-years-old, but staff said he still has a lot of love to give and a spring in his step.

Emma Healey, Manager at Dogs Trust Kenilworth, says: "It's especially sad when older dogs come to us through no fault of their own but Tonks is getting lots of TLC here at the rehoming centre but we're really hoping somebody will open their home and heart to this mature chap really soon. There are so many advantages to owning an older dog and they make great companions."

The rehoming centre is also keen to encourage people to consider the advantages of [owning an older dog](https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice/factsheets-downloads/0203_dgt_6pp%20dl%20older%20dog%20hr%20(2):

• They need less exercise but are still just as fun!

• They are used to living in a home so come house-trained.

• They're not as destructive as a puppy.

• Their personality is already shaped so new owners can really understand and appreciate the dog they are welcoming into their family.

Tonks has since found a home with Janet Hall from Kenilworth and is now settling into his new place.

Dogs Trust has lots of information and support available for anyone thinking of adopting an older dog.