Rusty, a three-year-old crossbreed, thought he had found his forever home, but his new owner took one look at him and walked away. The dog, who lost an eye in a roadside incident, was rejected because his appearance was deemed too distressing to witness daily.
A difficult start in life
Rusty was found living on the streets and is believed to have suffered the eye injury in a roadside accident. Despite his struggles, he has remained a gentle and affectionate dog, and rescuers say his appearance doesn't prevent him from being a joyful and loving boy.
His damaged eye is scheduled to be removed, meaning Rusty will have just one eye, but he is anticipated to adjust well and continue living a contented life. While the surgery isn't expected to impact his quality of life, it has affected how many people are interested in adopting him.
Adoption attempt fails
After Rusty was thought to have secured an adopter, the owner had second thoughts, seemingly concluding his missing eye would be too distressing to witness daily. Now, rather than settling into a home of his own, Rusty remains waiting for someone prepared to see past his appearance and recognise the sweet dog beneath.
Greek Stray ResQ, which is assisting Rusty in finding a home, describes him as sweet, calm, affectionate and brimming with quiet warmth. Despite never genuinely having experienced life as someone's pet, he has abundant love to offer.
Looking for a patient family
Rusty has a beautiful, fluffy wolf-sable coat and a face that volunteers say perpetually appears as though he is smiling. He will require a patient family prepared to help him master the basics, including walking calmly on a lead and house training.
Weighing approximately 25kg, Rusty is still a young dog with his whole life ahead of him - and volunteers are resolute that his past will not define his future. Rather than being judged on the eye he has lost, they hope someone will recognise the gentle, loyal and affectionate dog he truly is.
Rusty is currently based in Megara, Greece, and is available for adoption in the UK through Greek Stray ResQ. Responding to his post, one user wrote: "Rusty you need a kind, compassionate family cos you are a gorgeous dog. Other people, their loss. Good luck gorgeous!". A second user commented: "A beautiful young man with a gorgeous smile!". While a third added: "Rusty you are one special pup, good luck gorgeous boy."
To register your interest in Rusty, or any other animals in Greek Stray ResQ's care, get in touch with their team via greekstrayrescue.com.
