A dog whose wellbeing deteriorated to the point where he was removed from his home, has found a new owner in Aylesbury.

The RSPCA says that Rex was previously living in rubbish before the charity and police intervened.

After the welfare organisation’s intervention he was rehabilitated and became a supporting figure for other rescue dogs at the RSPCA base in Quainton.

Described as a 10-year-old husky cross German shepherd, Rex lived at the charity’s Blackberry Farm Animal Centre from October of last year.

Rex was taken away from his original owner after welfare concerns were raised with the RSPCA and local police

placeholder image — Rex was taken away from his original owner after welfare concerns were raised with the RSPCA and local police

He acted as a supportive companion for 250 poodles rescued from a multi-animal home, the RSPCA revealed.

Prior to his rescue, Rex was situated at a house in Worcestershire. The national charity says attempts to support Rex’s owner and address concerns were unsuccessful.

RSPCA inspector Emily Cheeseman looked into Rex’s case. She said: “Rex was emaciated and had severely overgrown nails. He was living amongst rubbish and filth, surrounded by his own urine and faeces.

“We attempted to support his owner and try to make improvements for his welfare but sadly this wasn’t successful so Rex was removed by police and later signed over into our care so he could start his journey to a new home.”

Darren - from Aylesbury - had rehomed a string of dogs from Blackberry Farm and was looking for another rescue when he spotted Rex online.

He said: “I saw Rex’s profile online and thought he looked nice. I went to meet him and we clicked straight away.

“Rex has settled in really well, he’s great company and we enjoy going for walks and spending time in the garden throwing a frisbee or playing ball. When we’re out he’ll trot ahead but then stop, look back and check in that I’m still there!

“He’s very chilled and is so gentle. For a big dog, he’s very soft and very loving. Everyone who meets him loves him. He loves food and I’ve had to put locks on the bin otherwise he’ll scavenge everything!”

Further information has been released by the RSPCA describing the condition Rex was in just 12 months ago. RSPCA clinical animal behaviourist Heather Taylor added: “Rex was referred to the behaviour team as we believe he may only have had limited food in his previous home, and had naturally developed some issues around food. However, we were able to work with him and prepare him for his new home.

“During his time at the centre he was used as a calm, friendly dog to help welcome other incoming dogs, particularly those who were shut down and nervous, and help them build their confidence and learn to socialise in new settings.

Darren hopes more people would consider adopting older dogs like Rex.

He added: “People are less likely to go for the older dogs because they need more care and can cost more but they’re the ones who need the homes the most. The old-timers are the ones who need us.”

The RSPCA has launched an adoption campaign with inspiring vet care.