Hello from Coco, please take a moment to read my sad story.

I was born on the streets in Romania. My early life was one of misery and survival - dodging cars, always hungry, shivering in the bitter winter cold, avoiding unkind humans and constantly wondering whether this day would be my last.

Then an animal welfare group operating in the area, rescued me from this hungry, cold, lonely and scary existence.  

I headed for a new start in the UK - it seemed my nightmare was over.

Sadly, I soon discovered that this was not a fairy tale ending to my suffering. I went instead from the frying pan into the fire.  

Coco (Image: RSPCA Southridge)

No one can know for sure what I suffered at the hands of my new owner, someone entrusted with my care and welfare, but who instead brutally abused me.  

The only concrete evidence of this is video footage showing me being thrown against a wall by a person. Where was this ''nation of animal lovers' for me?

Rescued for a second time, I arrived at Southridge in June 2023. I was traumatised and terrified - how could I ever trust humans again - particularly men?

I have leg and eye deformities and injuries to my muzzle and orbital area around my eye. I walk with a limp.

It is possible these are non-accidental injuries, but no one knows for sure, and I cannot say.   

In the almost year and a half I have been here, I have known nothing but patience, love and kindness.

Gradually my fears have subsided and I have learned that there are people I can trust and I shower them with affection, greet them with my big smile and waggy tail and love to snuggle up with them on my doggie bed.

But the haunting memories are there, which can make me wary of strangers, so I'm used to wearing a muzzle on walks - something I will need to continue to do when in my new home. 

At times I still want to rush back to the security of my kennel from a walk, but I do love the fresh air and feeling the grass under my feet. 

I am approximately five years old, a neutered male, and with my short legs, long nose and sandy coat, I have the unique appearance of a 'Heinz Variety' dog.

Perhaps not handsome on the outside to some, but my inner beauty shines through, and I won't let my horrendous past define me. 

I am ready now to move on, desperate for my own home and family after all this time. 

I have never lived indoors (although I am housetrained here) and dream of snuggling up with my forever friend on a cosy sofa.

I am calm, travel well and am ok to be left alone for short periods.

I do need an adult-only home, as I am rather wary of children. I have never lived with other animals, so think I would prefer to be the only pet.

I also need a secure fenced garden where I can safely explore, play, sniff around and sunbathe.

Are you kind, patient, trustworthy and like me longing for the unique love, affection and friendship of a dog-human bond?

Please come and meet me - together we can turn my nightmare past life into the fairy tale ending I long for, and I think I deserve.

To get in touch with RSPCA Southridge email southridge@rspca.org.uk or call 0300 123 0704. Visiting the centre is by pre-arranged, scheduled appointment only. The centre is located in Packhorse Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 3LZ.