RSPCA South Yorkshire: Appeal to find 'comic genius' and ‘joyful’ lurcher puppy who isn't seen as 'cuddly' a loving home in Yorkshire

A 10-month-old puppy who ‘spreads joy and laughter wherever he goes’ is still looking for his forever home as the charity’s Doncaster, Rotherham and District rehoming centre in Bawtry launches an appeal.

The lurcher puppy has been at the centre for 120 days, despite his friendly personality and love of people.

The young dog was taken in as one of a litter of unwanted pups and his playful charm quickly won him a new home. But he was returned to the centre three months later due to a change in his new owner’s circumstances.

Sadly, potential adopters have shown next to no interest in Alfie since, and the centre thinks it might be because people are put off by his physique and don’t see him as particularly ‘cuddly’.

Animal Welfare manager, Daniel Cartwright, said: “Alfie is a fabulous young dog who adores people and spreads joy and laughter wherever he goes.

“With his long legs and still-growing body, we think he’s a bit of a comedic genius with his various antics and we can guarantee he’ll make his new family smile.

“One of his favourite activities is zooming around our secure outside area at full speed, which quite often results in a ‘Bambi on ice’ type spectacle.

“But if he takes a tumble, he soon gets back up and comes over to you for a cuddle and some reassurance before he’s off again.

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“Greyhounds and lurchers are gentle and affectionate dogs who really enjoy being part of a family. Alfie has so much enthusiasm for life and having fun is his number one priority.

“It’s heart-breaking, given his vibrant personality and potential as a loving family pet, that we still haven't found him a much-deserved new home.”

The fact that Alfie is a sighthound is potentially another reason he is being overlooked, says the RSPCA. Some people think they are high maintenance dogs who need lots of walks. Of course some of them do have high energy levels, but they don’t need a lot of exercise and Alfie is quite happy to have a nap once he has had a play and a run.

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Alfie is described as a ‘smart cookie’ who picks up training quickly and he will thrive with new owners who are willing to understand and work with his needs and provide the stability and guidance he needs as he grows up.

He will need physical and mental stimulation, so an active home environment with space for him to run around and play is mandatory. He can live with children aged 10+ who are confident around high-energy, bouncy dogs, but he can’t share a home with cats or small furries.

He enjoys the company of his four-legged friends at the centre and could potentially also live with another active dog to keep him company.

You can find out more about Alfie and fill in an application form on the RSPCA website.