A FIVE-year-old dog who has spent his life in more than 700 days in care is looking for a forever home.

Lurcher crossbreed Alvin is one of the longest staying residents at the RSPCA Warrington, Halton, and St Helens branch.

Alvin, who is described as an adorable couch potato, was rescued by the charity from a property in the West Midlands back in May 2022.

He had untreated injuries caused by hunting which his owner had failed to seek veterinary treatment for.

The tan and white dog has since been in the care of the RSPCA’s Slutchers Lane branch in Warrington, but he was only able to be put up for adoption in February after his former owner - who was given a suspended prison sentence and disqualified from keeping animals for five years - signed him over into the charity’s care.

(Image: RSPCA)

Alvin has become a firm favourite with staff at the animal, but despite several rehoming appeals, he's still waiting to find his perfect match.  

Animal care manager Katie Buckley said: “Alvin has been with us for such a long time and everyone at the centre is incredibly fond of him, but he deserves a home of his own where he'll be spoiled and loved.

"Two years is a long time for any dog to be in kennels, but sadly we see many crossbreeds like Alvin coming into our care which means dogs like him can get overlooked.

“Because of his sighthound heritage people may also think he has bags of energy and will need endless walks, and this is possibly another reason why we’ve had limited interest in him.  

“Of course he loves getting out and exploring but he’s also got a relaxed and laid-back temperament and loves nothing more than stretching out his long limbs and having a cuddle on the sofa in our staff room.

(Image: RSPCA)

“Alvin really is an adorable couch potato and a gentle, happy and affectionate soul who loves the company of people and would really enjoy being part of family life. He just needs someone to offer him that chance - we know he’ll thrive in his own home and make a wonderful pet.”   

Alvin is quite a large dog and will need owners who have had experience of his breed and are willing to provide ongoing support with his house training.

As he’s spent a long time in kennels his interaction with youngsters has been limited, although he could live with children aged 12+ as well as another dog.

Because of his prey drive he cannot live with cats or small furry animals, but he will happily wear a muzzle when out and about and he can also be left alone for short periods. One of his favourite pastimes is going for a ride in the car with one of the centre’s volunteer walkers, so he’ll be happy to travel and go on adventures with his new family.

Prospective adopters can visit the animal centre’s website for more details about Alvin and how to adopt him.