THERE were paws and applause as a charity celebrated 10 tail-wagging years of helping dogs discover forever families.
Dogs Trust Manchester has found new homes for over 7,300 dogs since opening its rehoming centre in Denton back in October 2014.
In addition, 82 puppies have been born at the centre and almost 1,000 dogs have benefited from being cared for in a foster home thanks to a team of volunteer foster carers.
Lisa Eardley, the centre’s manager, says the joy of seeing dogs head home with their new families never fades.
“It’s absolutely fantastic that so many people choose to adopt a rescue dog when they are ready to welcome a dog into their life, and although we have waved goodbye to thousands of dogs, we never tire of seeing them head off home to start a new chapter in their lives.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has helped our dogs find their place at the heart of new families.”
To mark the special birthday, dog lovers were invited to a party at the centre on Parkway last Sunday (October 20).
One of the centre’s four-legged friends, Valdi, was the guest of honour – and the first to sample a special doggie birthday cake.
As well as stalls catering for people and pooches, a fun dog competition was held with competitions including Most Handsome Boy, Prettiest Lady and Best Golden Oldie and Noodle took top spot in the Best Dogs Trust Rescue Dog category.
Ms Endeavour UK Great Britain says she was honoured to be asked to be the official judge for the events.
Leanne Nuttall told The Correspondent: “What an amazing celebration. I was so honoured to have been a part of it. It was fantastic to meet the Dogs Trust Manchester team and their supporters.
“The competition was tough! They really made my job as judge a difficult one.”
Over the past decade, the centre has rehomed every breed and size of dog – with the most common breeds being Crossbreeds, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, Border Collie and German Shepherd.
In contrast, the rarest breeds to have walked through the doors include Leonberger, Hungarian Puli, Bavarian Mountain Hound, Turkish Kangal Dog, Lancashire Heeler and Japanese Chin.
The top three girls’ names have been Bella, Poppy and Lola, while the most popular boys’ names have been Max, Buddy and Charlie.
The Dogs Trust Manchester team has expressed its gratitude for the support received since the centre first opened.
“We can’t thank everyone enough for supporting us, whether that’s by adopting a dog, coming along to our events like so many did on Sunday, dropping off donations or of course volunteering for us on site or by providing fantastic temporary homes for our dogs,” added Lisa.
“We couldn’t do what we do without the support of everyone. On behalf of the thousands of dogs who have walked out of our doors to embark on fantastic adventures or if they’ve headed off to enjoy leisurely potters around the park and a snooze on the sofa, we say thank you.”
More information about the charity, the centre and its opening times can be found at www.dogstrust.org.uk/manchester