When five-year-old Jack Russel, Rebel, arrived at the Scottish SPCA’s Aberdeenshire rescue centre he was suffering from a “very bad” case of mange and shunned any human contact.
The timid dog eventually realised that staff at the centre were there to help him, and gradually came out of his shell.
And after nearly a year at the Drumoak base, Rebel is now embarking on a new lease of life as he has found his “forever home”.
The Scottish SPCA has released images showing the animal’s remarkable transformation.
Centre manager, Graeme Innes, said: “Rebel arrived in our care suffering from a very bad case of demodex mange, a severe and very uncomfortable skin condition which can lead to other complications.
“In the beginning, Rebel shuddered at any human interaction but in time he soon learned that we were helping him and would greet us with his big cheeky smile.
“A normal day consisted of medicated baths, ear and eye cleans and oral treatments, followed by a big run around with his toys.
“This soon became routine for him and he loved attention.”
He added: “It was a long road for Rebel and our team but we finally got his issues under control and he was ready to fly the nest.
“After 356 days in our care, Rebel found his forever home and he couldn’t be happier.
“He still has issues with his skin but is continuing his treatments and is thriving in his new home. His family adore him as much as he loves them.
“The whole team at the centre miss him but are over the moon seeing him in his new home and enjoying life.”
Rebel’s new owners, David Lorimer and Laura Hopkins, said: “In the short time Rebel has been with us, he has become a big part of the family.
“It didn’t take him long to settle down into family life. Rebel loves to be cosy and has a favourite blanket and place to sleep.
“He loves going out on walks and enjoys playing with his toys. We couldn’t be happier he is in our lives.”
