Husky Jake saves a life
Jake, a six-year-old Husky, arrived in Dogs Trust in late 2021, after he was found straying in Co Offaly. He spent a few months in the charity’s care and was able to find a loving home in January 2022, after his new family fell in love with his goofy personality.
More recently, the pooch became an unexpected hero while staying at boarding kennels during his family’s holiday. When his dog walker suddenly felt dizzy and fell unconscious while walking him, the heroic Husky stayed by her side and barked persistently to attract attention. Thanks to Jake’s quick actions, help arrived, and the dog walker was taken to the hospital where she stayed for over a week to recover.
Jake’s family described the pooch as ‘’an attention-loving bundle of joy who brightens every moment’’ and as someone guaranteed to ‘’put a smile on anyone’s face.’’ They also said the Husky is ‘’protective, calm and friendly, bringing a sense of peace wherever he goes’’ and confirmed that Jake was able to settle in quickly when he was first adopted from Dogs Trust, making it seem as though he was always part of the family.
As well as celebrating Jake’s amazing rescue, the charity is pleased that its recent petition for a Junior Minister to improve dog welfare has gained traction with the government.
In the latest Programme for Government there is a commitment to consolidate all policies and legislation related to dog welfare and control – which were previously under multiple, disjointed departments - under the Department of Agriculture.
But the charity still believes a Junior Minister is needed to have central oversight and is urging those who haven’t yet to sign their petition.
Suzie Carley, Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland said: “While Blue Monday is often seen as the gloomiest day of the year, Jake’s heartwarming story is a great way to beat the January blues, and a reminder about the importance of second chances. It’s absolutely wonderful to see Jake, a rescue, transform into the role of rescuer himself! And to see him flourish in a loving home.
“We’re urging everyone to be a superhero themselves and sign our petition to call on government to take the next progressive step and appoint a Junior Minister who will have oversight for dog welfare. Someone at the heart of government whose job it is to care as much as you do.”
Dogs Trust is asking dog lovers across the country to sign their petition calling for a Junior Minister for Animal Welfare via Dogstrust.ie/GreatestGift.