Patches story: from Underdog to radio star sensation

Patches, a 10-year-old Crossbreed, came into our care at Merseyside after the death of his owner. Having previously spent eight happy years in a loving home, Patches was facing a very different chapter of his life.

Finding his next home wasn't straightforward. Patches' medical needs, including inflammatory bowel disease and a parasitic disease requiring a specialist fish diet and daily medication, meant that finding the right adopter would take time.

But despite these challenges, Patches quickly became a firm favourite with staff and volunteers. His gentle nature, unwavering loyalty and love of affection made him a wonderful companion, and the team was determined to find him the happy ending he deserved.

He became a big hit on the Greatest Hits Radio airwaves when his story was shared as part of Ken’s weekly “Underdogs” segment, with regular updates on his search for a new home. Spearheaded by Ken Bruce, the segment saw thousands of listeners follow Patches’ story and hope that, together, they could help him find the happy ending he deserved.

That happy ending came when recently retired David Lahey contacted us looking to adopt a rescue dog. Never focused on breed, age or appearance, David simply wanted a companion who would fit into his retirement chapter.

Our rehoming team immediately thought of Patches and, after meeting him, David knew he'd found his new best friend.

David Lahey continued: "I wasn't looking for a particular breed, age or how a dog looked. I wanted to find the dog whose personality matched mine and could be a walking pal. I truly believe every dog deserves a loving home.

Patches has settled in brilliantly, and we're already enjoying lots of walks together along the canals and through the woods.''

Georgina Lowery, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Merseyside, said: ''From underdog to radio sensation, we are delighted to know Patches is content in a home again. Patches is now one of over 300 dogs Dogs Trust Merseyside has rehomed so far this year.

Seeing Patches finally leave the centre after 18 months was a special moment for the whole team and it's thanks to support from Postcode Lottery players who have raised such an incredible amount over the years, that we are able to continue care for dogs like Patches. We couldn’t achieve what we do without players’ support."

Dogs Trust has been able to help dogs like Patches thanks to the generous support of Postcode Lottery players who have raised over £30 million for the charity, helping care for over 125,000 dogs since funding began in 2014.

As well as helping dogs find a new home, funding from Postcode Lottery players has helped our charity's dedicated teams including training, behaviour and welfare specialists, fostering and volunteer co-ordinators, and many more to help thousands of dogs find their forever homes.

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery said: “It’s amazing that players have raised over £30 million for Dogs Trust. This funding has transformed the lives of thousands of dogs just like Patches, who are now happy and safe in their forever homes thanks to the Dogs Trust team. Their incredible work continues to give pups in need a second chance at the love and care they deserve."