Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary is a fairly small cat and dog sanctuary which opened in 1992 just outside of Bristol, in Wild Country Lane, Barrow Gurney.
A wide range of adorable dogs of different ages are available for adoption, including Jack Russell Terriers, Lurchers and Crossbreeds.
Below are 19 of the rescue centre’s adorable dogs, who would love to find a permanent home in Bristol. Some of these cute animals are living in the kennels at the centre, whilst others are staying at a ‘home from home’.
Could you be their new fur-ever family? More information about the adoption process is available via Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary’s website.
5. Dougie, 1 year old male Labrador Crossbreed
"Meet beautiful Dougie. At just 1 year old, Dougie hasn’t had the easiest start to life. But despite that Dougie is a super sweet boy who absolutely loves everyone he meets, showing it with a waggy tail and lots of wiggles. Dougie is quite excitable with everyone he meets, and he loves a long cuddle when he gets back from his walks. He has some handling issues that are often observed before his walks, and when harnessing. So Dougie needs someone willing to spend time working through this at his pace. Given the opportunity, Dougie loves to play and is full of puppy like enthusiasm. He does amazing zoomies around our fields, and loves it when his carers join in with play bows! His attempts to play with other dogs can come off a bit rude, but he has been working hard on his social skills here. Dougie does love his dog socials on site and is really enjoying learning more appropriate behaviours. Dougie has great recall in our secure fields and is very eager to keep checking in on his lead walks. He does have a slight prey drive and has the potential to be quite strong. However, generally he walks quite politely through the woods. Being part lab, Dougie loves his food, making training a great experience. Unfortunately he has shown some signs of food guarding. While it has reduced in his time at the sanctuary, this would need to be carefully managed in the home. Dougie has recently been diagnosed with hip dysplasia, which is currently being managed with treatments, and Holly Hedge can continue to help with this. We are happy to discuss this further with any prospective adopter. As with most young dogs, Dougie needs someone with plenty of time to spend with him. He can find being left quite upsetting, so this would need to building up over time. While he might need some help catching up with other dogs of his age, he undoubtedly has the brains and drive to do so. Dougie has so much potential to be an amazing dog with a bit of help in the right home." | Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary
6. Blue, approximately 3 year old male Lurcher Crossbreed
"Please meet Blue! This gorgeous cheeky boy came into Holly Hedge as he wasn’t getting along with the other dog in the home. Blue is one smart cookie who loves learning new things, especially enrichment based toys and games to keep his busy mind active. He has a very strong prey drive, so will need people who can deal with a strong dog. He also struggles with other dogs, so in addition will need training and work on triggers of seeing other dogs. For that reason Blue is currently being muzzle trained. This handsome lad also has a much softer side to him, as he just loves a cuddles on the sofa with his carers. In fact he loves people in general once he gets to know them with gentle introductions. Blue is looking for a home where someone is around a lot of the time to give him the company he loves. Someone/people who will have the time and patience to help build up his confidence and help him grow into a well balanced lad." | Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary
7. Dexter, 7 year old male Malamute X German Shepherd
"Say hello to Dexter, a beautiful and big-hearted Alaskan Malamute/German Shepherd looking for his new forever family! Dexter came to his current owners as a rehomed dog and has settled in well, showing his affectionate and loyal nature. Due to recent changes in his home environment, Dexter is now in search of a quieter home where he can be the centre of attention. Dexter is an independent yet loving dog who thrives in a calm environment. He is happy to relax around the house, knowing his family is nearby. Dexter enjoys moderate daily walks but doesn’t require intense exercise due to his size and occasional joint sensitivity. This loyal companion does best when given space, especially with new people and situations. Dexter has a few quirks: he’s not a fan of grooming, may require sedation for nail trims, and can be protective over food and toys. A quiet, adult-only home with a seasoned dog owner who can respect his independent nature and help him settle into a new routine would be ideal. Dexter would thrive with someone who understands his unique needs and can provide him with a comfortable “retirement” home. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who enjoys peaceful surroundings and steady companionship, Dexter might be your perfect match." | Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary
8. Barolo, 9 year old male Lagotto Romagnolo
"Please meet the wonderful Barolo, who is looking for his new home through no fault of his own. Barolo does have some ongoing neurological conditions which do not affect his quality of life. We are looking for a home that are happy to support him for the rest of his life. Barolo is a sweet boy that loves his cuddles and his tennis ball! He would fit in well with an family/person that is happy to go explore at his own pace. Barolo does love to sniff, and is a busy boy when he’s out and about but once at home he does love to chill out on the sofa. Barolo walks well on the lead, does need some support with his recall, loves travelling in the car and is generally a really happy little guy." | Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary