The RSPCA is grappling with an urgent rehoming crisis as two lurchers, Alvin and Victor, have spent a combined total of more than 1,800 days in the charity’s care, waiting for their forever homes.

Both dogs, described by staff as friendly and lovable, have yet to attract significant interest from potential adopters despite their long stay at the RSPCA’s Warrington, Halton & St Helens Animal Centre in Cheshire.

Alvin, a five-year-old lurcher, was rescued in May 2022 from the West Midlands after suffering untreated injuries caused by hunting. His owner failed to seek veterinary care, leading to the RSPCA’s intervention. After his former owner was dealt with in court and Alvin was officially signed over, he became available for adoption in February 2023. Since then, Alvin has been waiting patiently for 925 days, equivalent to two-and-a-half years at the centre.

Victor, a six-year-old lurcher, was rescued by RSPCA officers and brought to the same centre. His wait for a permanent home has stretched to 883 days. Despite his gentle nature and affectionate personality, Victor has continued to be overlooked by adopters.

Staff Baffled by Lack of Interest

Katie Buckley, Animal Care Manager at the Warrington centre, expressed her confusion over the lack of interest in Alvin and Victor. She noted that in her seven years with the RSPCA, they have been the hardest dogs to rehome, despite being described as friendly, fun-loving, and affectionate.

Katie characterised Alvin as an “adorable couch potato” who loves to relax and stretch out on the sofa. “He’s such a sweet, gentle lad who loves the company of people,” she said, adding that Alvin enjoys his time outdoors but is equally content snoozing indoors. His excitement when receiving his meals or a treat brings a little joy to the shelter staff, but they are baffled as to why Alvin has not yet found a permanent home.

Victor, meanwhile, is known for his affectionate nature and love for human companionship. “Victor often watches as other dogs leave for their new homes, and it’s heartbreaking to see him overlooked time and again,” Katie said. He enjoys quiet moments outdoors, and particularly loves car rides, often hanging his head out of the window to feel the breeze. His playful side includes engaging with the staff in “conversations” when asked to “speak.” Katie describes him as a “clever lad” who just needs a chance to show his potential as a loyal companion.

Rehoming Challenges for Alvin and Victor

Both Alvin and Victor require owners with previous experience handling lurchers. Due to their strong chasing instincts, neither dog can live in homes with cats or small furry animals. Additionally, since they have not had much exposure to children, the staff at the RSPCA believe they would be best suited to homes without small children.

The urgent need to find new homes for Alvin and Victor comes at a time when the RSPCA is facing wider rehoming challenges across England and Wales. According to new data, 42% more animals arrived at the RSPCA’s centres in 2023 than were adopted, leading to increased pressure on shelters and staff. Many rehoming centres are at or near full capacity, with animals waiting to be adopted or being assessed for adoption.

The RSPCA is addressing the ongoing rehoming crisis with its annual ‘Adoptober’ campaign, encouraging people to adopt pets from rescue centres rather than purchasing animals from breeders. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the growing number of animals in need of homes and to alleviate the strain on the charity’s rehoming centres.

In 2022, the RSPCA successfully rehomed 28,208 pets across its 14 rehoming centres and 135 independently-run branches. However, this figure fell short of the 40,118 animals that arrived at the centres during the same period. As a result, many animals, like Alvin and Victor, have remained in shelters for longer than expected while staff work to find them suitable homes.

Find out more about Alvin and Victor online or contact the team at contact@rspca-whs.org.uk or 01925 632944.