A "sweet and gentle" eldery dog is struggling to find a family to take him on due to his age and some health problems - and is getting overlooked "time and time again". 

Ten-year-old Akita Kuzey came into RSPCA Blackberry Farm in Aylesbury’s care in October and has been waiting for six months for a new family to take him home. 

When he was rescued he was very thin and had sores on his legs that hadn’t been treated, but staff say he’s now feeling much better and is a "lovely, gentle old boy".

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Maisie Walker, from Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, said: “Kuzey is such a sweet old gent but, at 10, his age is starting to catch up with him and he’s on long-term pain medication for arthritis which will need to continue in his new home. 

“We fear that adopters are being put off by this extra responsibility as it will come at an extra cost at a time when families are really feeling the pinch. 

“We are desperate to find Kuzey his forever home as he's been in our care for so long and, at his age, he really needs a cosy, warm retirement home where he’ll be showered with love.

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"We do the best we can but nothing can replace a wonderful home of his own.”

Despite his age and his stiff joints, Kuzey is described as very playful and loves to play with his toys.

He enjoys gentle walks and loves nothing more than a good sniff. He could live with older children (over 12) but would prefer to be the only dog and isn’t a fan of cats. 

He can be unsure around other dogs so his new owners will need to bear this in mind when socialising with other pooches.

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He’s happy to walk with other dogs but doesn’t like it when they get into his personal space.

Maisie added: “Unfortunately Kuzey is one in a long line of dogs coming into our care with separation anxiety having got used to having people around during lockdown.

"He’d really like new owners who can dedicate lots of time to helping him settle in before gradually introducing him to spending time alone.

“He is such a loving, affectionate lad with so much love to give. Please can someone give him a chance?”

To find out more about Kuzey visit his online profile at www.rspca.org.uk/local/blackberry-farm-animal-centre/findapet/details/KUZEY/226941/rehome or contact blackberryfarm@rspca.org.uk or 0300 123 0752.