In November we received a few calls about a tiny little terrier dog that had been spotted curled up against a wall. Despite people's best attempts, this little one was so terrified of people that anytime they tried to approach or help she went into a frenzied attack. They were understandably scared. On the second day when they realised she was still there but still unapproachable, they rang our kennel manager who in turn rang Shelley, our Briarhill Shop manager who lived close by. Shelley was in on the road to trap and catch a fox in need of help but promised to go as soon as she had finished. Those padded gloves we use when handling wild animals came in very useful, an hour later, as Shelley came face to face with a tiny but terrified little dog.

Caught and back to Shelleys house for the night, as it was late, she was allowed a safe space, fed and left to process it all. Seven weeks on and we would like to introduce you to the real Damsel, and yes she is still with Shelley as a foster dog.

Shelley says ....
'Since being rescued Damsels little tail has not stopped wagging, she is loving life and loving being loved. She adores going for walks, walks well on the lead but can be frightened of approaching dogs. She travels well in the car and loves a road trip.

She is fully house trained in our home but will need to be let out every couple of hours to continue doing well, she loves a little potter around the garden on dry days. She has learned so many new things like eating from a bowl, mastering the stairs and best of all putting on the puppy dog eyes while the humans are eating.

She gets on fine with calm, well behaved dogs but she is not a fan of overly enthusiastic dogs as this frightens her, she prefers the more calm aloof approach but would definitely be up for the craic once she gets to know a dog.

She has met a confident cat and has been curious about them, with no aggression shown, but has chased away cats who appear on the garden wall defending her garden from invaders.

Damsel loves an evening cuddled up watching the telly, she is a big fan of telly but not always a fan of who or whats on it she just loves to snuggle and be cosy. She is a super little dog who is very loving, affectionate, clever and fun loving. She has a reasonable recall once she's bonded to her family.

She can be a little shy meeting new people but armed with the right treats she will quickly be your best friend. She could be rehomed as an only dog or with another dog who would allow her to introduce herself first. Damsel could live with a confident dog savvy cat. She will need a home where there is someone at home all or most of the day but can be left alone for a couple of hours, occasionally, once she has a cosy bed and toys to amuse herself.'

We believe that Damsel is a true heroine to have found a way to leave her frightening past behind her and believe in her future. She deserves a 5* home where she can continue to be loved and give love back.

Damsel is approximately 12/14 months old and a terrier x Chihuahua. She Is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped.

In compliance with DAFM legislation, the GalwaySPCA unique certificate number is GPT200022C.