A Staffordshire Bull Terrier has found his 'forever home' thanks to an animal shelter.

Bazel arrived at Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter in December 2016 after being found as a stray. He quickly proved very difficult to deal with as he had minimal socialisation skills with other dogs, although he was slightly better when meeting and interacting with humans. He was very vocal when in his kennel and this could be quite stressful to both himself and the other dogs at the shelter.

Training proved difficult and staff sought assistance from external behaviourists to find out the best approach to help train him and settle him down. Bazel was known to even chase cars when walking along the fence but the shelter are happy to report that he doesn’t do this any longer.

It took approximately four months to develop his social skills and whilst he was available for adoption, people were put off by his behaviour, so rehoming him proved a challenge.

It was in early 2017 when Gemma Lewis and her partner saw him on the website and wanted to meet him. Fortunately for Bazel, Gemma was really up for the challenge and wanted to continue his training and ensure he developed correctly. Visits to the shelter continued for around four weeks to ensure that Gemma learnt the correct behavioural techniques and everyone was comfortable with the adoption.

Gemma said: “Bazel has come on hugely since we have had him, we still have some things to overcome and every day is a training opportunity. He has made lots of doggy friends and still loves all human contact including my young nephew. He loves nothing more than cuddling up under a blanket and snoring loudly for all to here! He loves a football to play with and a game of tug of war! Jenny (one of your volunteers) still comes to visit him, he gets so excited to see her! It has been a huge learning curve for us all but we wouldn’t change him for the world.”

Gemma and Bazel are one of many success stories about the animals being rehomed through Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter.

Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter receive no financial help from the Government, Lottery Funding or the local council.

Visit wars.org.uk to find out more about the shelter.