'Wonderful' bald pooch searching for new home after been given up by previous owners

THIS adorable bald dog is searching for his fur-ever home after being taken in by the RSPCA.

Four-year-old Patch, thought to be a boxer breed, has no fur due to a severe reaction to dust mites and birch pollen.

His previous owners gave him up after being unable to afford treatments and he was taken in by the RSCPA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford and District Branch.

But it took staff six months to work out what was causing his soreness and balding.

They now hope to rehome Patch, who they say is a "wonderful, loving boy".

Fay Gibbons, of 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 they say he needs weekly medicated baths, especially 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.

"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!"

Patch enjoys having his baths and loves to be stroked and petted while having his sun cream applied.

He has spent time in the centre's office and is always clean indoors so the team believes he has been house trained in a previous home.

However, he doesn't like spending time with other dogs or with cats, and the team would like him to go to an adult-only new home.

The branch can be contacted by calling 01422 365628.