Halifax dog finds loving home after puppy farm horror

Our pets really are the family we choose, but unfortunately not all animals are given the best start in life. With searches for rescue pets having increased 72% during lockdown compared to the same period last year, thankfully more animals are finding their happy ever after and importantly they are also helping save their humans too.

Casper, seven, a Border Collie from Halifax had a difficult start to life. He was rescued as part of a major illegal puppy farm raid by Manchester police and the RSPCA that was televised on Channel Five’s the Dog Rescuers in 2013.

In total, 137 dogs were found in filthy and horrific conditions and Casper was discovered at just seven weeks old with no sign of his parents. Following the rescue, Casper was so unwell that he had to remain with the RSPCA for nearly three months until being rehomed to Jeanette McDonald and her two-year-old Border Collie, Pippa.

Pippa and Casper instantly became inseparable, but sadly Pippa passed away in 2018 due to severe epilepsy, which took a heavy toll on Casper. He became inconsolable and was not able to eat or drink for some time. His difficult start to life has meant that Casper is a very sensitive dog and suffers from separation anxiety – proof that these illegal puppy farms can have serious consequence on the wellbeing of pets.

Casper is a loving and affectionate dog and he has gained his spark back while enjoying walks and cuddles with his loving owners. The family are still in touch with Casper’s real-life sister, Meg, who was discovered in the puppy farm with him and is now also doing very well.

In honour of our most deserving pets, Petplan has launched the Petplan Pet Awards 2020, to champion and celebrate the nation’s most inspiring pets.

To nominate your pet for their love, support and companionship visit www.petplan.co.uk/pet-awards. Nominations are open until 31st July and there are five categories to enter. An independent panel of experts will select five finalists from each category in August before one of those lucky pets is crowned the winner, receiving a fabulous hamper full of goodies worth £400.