Romeo (right) and Juliet (left) have been inseparable all their lives. (Picture: RSPCA’s Lancashire East)
The staff of RSPCA’s Lancashire East branch are hoping that two of their longest-staying dogs will finally get their happy ending, after spending their lifetimes at each other’s sides.
Aptly-named Romeo and Juliet, the nine and 11-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terriers first arrived at the Accrington animal centre in February after their previous owner struggled to cope with a multi-dog household.
In their years living together, Romeo and Juliet have become inseparable, with staff at the RSPCA describing them as ‘devoted to each other.’
The real tragedy here though, is that as slightly older dogs, they keep getting overlooked for adoption.
‘They are the most loving and affectionate pair of dogs you could ever hope to meet,’ Sue Abraham, Lancashire East Branch’s fostering co-ordinator, explained, ‘but being on the more mature side has not helped them and they are now our longest-staying dogs.’
Juliet with her favourite toy. (Picture: RSPCA’s Lancashire East)
But Romeo and Juliet still have plenty of love to give to the people around them as well as each other – when they aren’t playing tug of war, they love nothing more than snuggling down for cuddles with volunteers.
‘Juliet likes to carry her toys around like babies, and one of their favourite pastimes is playing tug of war with each other. Romeo is a bit of a foodie and adores his treats, so we’ve had to watch his waistline a little,’ Sue continued.
’He forgets he’s not as young as he used to be and he’ll try and jump over our reception desk.
‘Midway through his run he’ll then change his mind and he ends up with only his front paws dangling over.’
One of their favourite activities is playing tug-of-war together. (Picture:RSPCA’s Lancashire East)
The RSPCA is shining the spotlight on Romeo and Juliet as part of Adoptober, their annual rehoming campaign.
And as the charity’s branches report a 6% increase in dogs, and 4% increase in cats between 2021 and 2022, campaigns like Adoptober have never been more pertinent.
’They’re both wonderful characters who are devoted to each other and they will bring so much joy to their new family,’ Sue added.
‘Being in kennels in their twilight years is not easy for them and they’ve been waiting for their happy ending for a long time. We’d love to see them settled in their own home and hope this appeal will help us find their perfect match.’
Despite his age, 9-year-old Romeo still loves to play. (Picture: RSPCA’s Lancashire East)
Romeo and Juliet are both confident walking on leads, although Romeo can be strong on the lead and vocal when passing other dogs. Meanwhile, Juliet is a little shyer and less keen on face-to-face interaction.
Still, the couple are very sociable and love human company, so an adult-only, pet-free household with people around for a good part of the day would be a perfect fit for them.
‘Puppies and dogs under a year of age seem to be rehomed much quicker and that is likely due to people’s perceptions that they are more adaptable and will fit into their lives more easily,’ RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines explained.
‘There is often a common assumption that older dogs and those approaching, or in, their senior years will need more specialist care and will have health problems. But that isn’t always the case.’
As part of their Adoptober appeal, the RSPCA want to find these star-crossed lovers the perfect forever home. (Picture: RSPCA’s Lancashire East)
‘Just like people, every dog is an individual and some of our senior pooches can be more active and playful than other younger dogs, while some are looking for a quiet, calm home where they can snooze on the sofa and potter around in a garden.’
If you think you can offer Romeo and Juliet their happily ever after in a forever home, please visit the centre’s website or call them on 01254 231 118 (open daily 11am-4pm, closed Thursday).
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‘They are the most loving and affectionate pair of dogs you could ever hope to meet.’