Remarkable 'bald' dog patch is looking for his forever home

A dog who has been left completely bald due to a severe skin allergy is struggling to find a new home.

Four-year-old Patch was taken in by the RSPCA due to concerns about his condition when his previous owners couldn't afford the cost of treatment to manage his allergies. He arrived at RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District Branch sore, itchy and uncomfortable.

Fay Gibbons, from the branch, said: "Poor Patch has a severe allergy to dust mites and birch pollen, and his skin gets incredibly itchy and sore. He's been with us for over six months now while tests established what was causing his skin irritation. It's a relief we now know what it is and we have a treatment plan in place. Thankfully, he's responding well to his medication and his fur is even starting to grow back; very slowly!"

Patch takes allergy tablets every day and needs high-quality flea treatment monthly. His carers have found that rinsing off his skin after walks helps to remove any irritable pollen and he needs weekly medicated baths, particularly during the warmer weather, as well as sun cream when he goes out on walks.

Fay added: "Patch is such a wonderful boy; he's sweet and kind, with so much love to give. Taking on any dog is a huge responsibility and a big financial commitment, but Patch's new owners will need to be aware of the added costs of managing his allergies. His care plan can change from season to season and will depend on how his condition improves with time - but our team will help any potential adopters with this."

In winter, Patch is also quite the model and has his own wardrobe of special jumpers which he wears during the colder weather to keep him warm!