PREVIEW

A dog who has been left completely bald due to a severe skin allergy is struggling to find a new home.

Four-year-old Patch was taken in by the RSPCA due to concerns about his condition when his previous owners couldn’t afford the cost of treatment to manage his allergies.

He arrived at RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch sore, itchy and uncomfortable.

Fay Gibbons, from the branch, said: “Poor Patch has a severe allergy to dust mites and birch pollen, and his skin gets incredibly itchy and sore.

“He’s been with us for over six months now while tests established what was causing his skin irritation. It’s a relief we now know what it is and we have a treatment plan in place. Thankfully, he’s responding well to his medication and his fur is even starting to grow back; very slowly!”

Patch takes allergy tablets every day and needs high-quality flea treatment monthly. His carers have found that rinsing off his skin after walks helps to remove any irritable pollen and he needs medicated baths, particularly during the warmer weather, weekly as well as sun cream when he goes out on walks.

Fay added: “Patch is such a wonderful boy; he’s sweet and kind, with so much love to give.

“Taking on any dog is a huge responsibility and a big financial commitment, but Patch’s new owners will need to be aware of the added costs of managing his allergies. His care plan can change from season to season and will depend on how his condition improves with time - but our team will help any potential adopters with this.

“Patch is also quite the model and has his own wardrobe of special jumpers which he wears during the colder weather to keep him warm!”

Patch enjoys having his baths and loves to be stroked and petted while having his sun cream applied.

He has spent time in the centre’s office and is always clean indoors so the team believes he has been house trained in a previous home. However, he doesn’t like spending time with other dogs or with cats, and the team would like him to go to an adult-only new home.

Fay added: “Patch loves the company of people so he’d like someone who is based at home and has lots of time to spend with him. He’s very playful and loves his toys; he often takes them out and carries them around on walks with him like a comforter.

“He loves to snorkel for treats in the paddling pool and is one of the goofiest dogs we’ve ever had; he’s always getting up to cheeky antics and making us all giggle!

“He is such a special boy and we really hope people aren’t put off by his unique appearance. He’s such a lovely lad and he really deserves a loving new home.”