Alfie had a rough start in life, but that didn't stop him from finding a forever home!
Once facing a life of neglect, Alfie didn't have much hope. At only one year old, the Whippet/Kelpie cross was living in filth and was not getting the care and attention he needed.
But Alfie's life has done a complete 180 since his adoption into a loving home last year.
Things haven't been easy for Alfie
Alfie's previous owner struggled to keep up with him, and unfortunately this beautiful dog's health and wellbeing were neglected. Every day for a year, Alfie was confined to a small, filthy backyard strewn with rubbish.
Elderly neighbours took pity on him and would take him out so that he could stretch his legs with a walk down the street
RSPCA South Australia inspectors paid several visits to check up on poor Alfie before his owner eventually decided that surrendering him would be best for both of them.
This turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to Alfie because he soon found a family with time, energy and enthusiasm to take good care of him.
One family's unforgettable journey
After seeing photos of Alfie online, animal lover Natasha knew he was the one. She had been looking for her own furry friend as her husband has two dogs.
After browsing the pet rescue sites for months, Natasha saw Alfie's cute little smile on the RSPCA South Australia adoption page, and immediately started doing the process to make him a part of her family.
Not wanting Alfie to slip through their fingers, the following day the family made the 455km journey from their home south of Adelaide near Strathalbyn to our Whyalla shelter to meet him in person.
"I figured it was better to do an eight hour round trip to find a perfect friend than never try," says Natasha.
Turns out that Alfie was the perfect friend! He was compatible with the whole family and they were so excited to take him home.
On the way home, Alfie curled up on the back seat while Natasha's daughters gave him a good cuddle.
The family made a road trip out of it, stopping multiple times to stretch their legs and have a quick play with their newest family member. The expedition took a total of 14 hours, but Natasha says it was completely worth it.
Life with his new family
Alfie has now been at his new home for a few weeks, and according to Natasha, they are both incredibly happy.
He gets on well with the two other dogs, as well as the cats and chickens that live on the property.
Natasha reports that her eager-to-please new canine companion already responds well when his name is called and has his own daily routine, which ends with him curling up on the couch or in his bed promptly at 8.30 pm every night.
The family plans to take Alfie to force-free training classes, to build on his already positive behaviour.
"We feel like he has always been with us and I can't imagine our home without him," shares Natasha.
Alfie only has people like you to thank for his happy ending. To save more neglected animals and give them the best chance of a good life, please donate today.
