Margate, a five-year-old beagle cocker spaniel cross, has spent 1,036 days in kennels at Many Tears Animal Rescue, watching other dogs leave for their forever homes while he continues to wait for his own.
He arrived at the Llanelli-based rescue in November 2023 after coming from a breeder. Despite having plenty of people at the centre who adore him, staff say he has yet to find the person who can give him the kind of home he needs. He is described as incredibly clever, affectionate and full of character, but Margate isn't the easiest dog to place and will need an owner who is confident and experienced.
The dog everyone knows
Margate might still be waiting for his forever family, but he certainly isn't short of admirers at Many Tears. In fact, he has collected so many nicknames over the years that staff have turned his name into something of a running joke. Best Boy, Maggie Moo, Margaret and Margherita Pizza are just some of the names he answers to. One member of staff has even declared herself the founder of Margate's fan club, saying he has "so many adoring fans" at the rescue.
When he's not charming the people around him, Margate enjoys going for walks, exploring the yard, sniffing out anything interesting and spending time with his favourite volunteers. He has also undergone dental treatment during his stay and had a cyst removed from his back left leg.
His brain is always working
One thing Margate certainly isn't lacking is intelligence. Staff describe him as "one of the smartest dogs we've ever worked with", and he loves being given something to figure out. He's already mastered sitting, giving his paw, and speaking, while treats can apparently make him a very willing student. The rescue thinks activities such as scent work or cani-cross could be perfect for keeping his clever brain occupied.
But there's plenty of energy to match his intelligence. Margate is a lively and vocal dog who isn't afraid to let everyone know when he thinks breakfast should be served. His excited barking can reportedly be heard from the car park. And while he can be a cheeky character, staff say there is a much more vulnerable side to him too. Overwhelming situations can make Margate anxious, particularly trips to the vet, so he needs someone who will understand when he needs extra reassurance. He is muzzle-trained to help make these situations easier for him.
Why he needs someone special
Margate's long wait isn't because he has nothing to offer – it's because finding the right home for him is particularly important. He needs an adult-only household with no children living there or visiting, along with a secure garden where he can safely burn off his energy. He would ideally be the only dog in the home and cannot live alongside cats or small furry animals. A calm female dog could potentially be considered, but only if she doesn't challenge Margate around the things he feels protective over.
Food, toys and bedding can all be things he guards, meaning prospective owners need to understand resource guarding and know how to manage it. Staff believe some of this behaviour comes from insecurity and say adopters will receive advice and support to help Margate settle into his new surroundings.
Waiting for his person
For a dog who has spent nearly three years in rescue, Margate has made remarkable progress. Those who care for him say he has grown in confidence and shown just how much potential he has – and they believe the right person could discover a loyal, affectionate and wonderfully goofy companion. One member of staff said: "He is the most super special boy who has so many adoring fans, and I am the founder of that fan club." She added: "I know his right home is out there; he just needs to wait a bit longer."
When that person does eventually come along, they won't be able to simply pick Margate up and take him home. The rescue wants prospective adopters to meet him more than once, giving him the chance to build a bond with them before making the move. Anyone interested in giving Margate the forever home he has been waiting for, or finding out about other dogs at Many Tears, can visit manytearsrescue.org.
