Why happy and sad? Read on as his lovely mum picks up the story…
Fergal was rescued after being found living in some woods in Kent, probably left behind by travellers. A friend of ours, and a greyhound adopter, managed to gain his trust and catch him, handing him to Forever Hounds Trust (then GRWE).
Ten years ago we took on a very anxious dog, who couldn’t be left alone even for a few minutes. He refused to go to the bathroom in our garden and pulled terribly on walks because he was so terrified of traffic and noise. We moved to the coast 6 months after adopting him and he was immediately calmer. Chasing his ball on the beach was his happy place.
We adopted a terrier cross not long after and Fergal had found his boss. All he had needed was another dog to tell him what to do. We were now able to leave him which was amazing.
The terrible terrier died in 2021 and Fergal missed her so much we soon adopted Indi, the dog in the picture below. Fergal grew old, couldn’t chase his balls any more but could always find strength to growl at Indi if she annoyed him!
He is elderly now, has cataracts, is getting a bit deaf, and sadly his back legs don’t work as well as they should. But, he still likes his (short) walks, his food and sitting on his sister if he thinks she’s taking up too much space on the sofa!
So, the happy part of the story is that Fergal was found, rescued and homed to a wonderful family who ensured he had a second chance at life where he never wanted for anything ever again.
Moving onto the sad part of the story – before we had chance to publish this, we received news that Fergal had sadly passed away after he completely lost the use of his legs. With the permission of his mum, this in turn has turned into a tribute to gorgeous Fergal.
She goes on to say…
He will be very missed. He never really got over his anxiety, and would stand quivering when taken anywhere new. His worst trait, and one we never overcame, was that he would nip anyone who came into “his” space, and would become increasingly assertive in the nips the longer they stayed! Not conducive to a healthy social life for us!
Our deepest condolences go to Fergal’s family, but also utmost thanks for giving him the life he truly deserved.
Rest in peace dear Fergal.
Happy Homing Story – Kenny