A black and white dog wearing a green harness stands on grass, looking alert. A person in blue trousers holds the dog's lead, with only their legs visible in the background.

Starting over as a senior dog

When Ozzy’s beloved owner passed away by his side, this senior pup needed a brand-new start.

When 11-year-old Ozzy faced the heart-breaking loss of his owner, his future was uncertain. Luckily, he was brought to Woodgreen so we could be by his side for every step of his journey.

Our dog carers found Ozzy to be a gentle and friendly dog but, sadly, he was also suffering from a range of health issues. Our vets discovered that Ozzy was dealing with cataracts, a UTI and severe dental disease that needed urgent attention before he could find a new home.

A person gently holds the chin of a black and white dog wearing a bright green harness and lead, outdoors on grass with trees in the background.

Ozzy's health journey

While some of Ozzy’s ailments could be treated with medication, treating his dental disease would require surgery.

Under anaesthetic, it became clear just how uncomfortable Ozzy must’ve been. Alongside several missing teeth, many of Ozzy’s teeth were worn down to the gum line leaving painful roots exposed.

Our vets felt that spreading treatment across two surgeries, with plenty of time to recuperate in between, would give this senior dog the best chance of a good recovery.

Our vets felt that spreading treatment across two surgeries, with plenty of time to recuperate, would give this senior dog the best chance of a good recovery.

Between surgeries, we found Ozzy a foster placement with Debbie, one of our veterinary nurses.

By Ozzy’s second night, Debbie told us “It was like he’d always been there! He settled in straight away and found his spot on the back of the sofa.”

After Ozzy’s second procedure went smoothly and this pup finally had a pain-free mouth, it was time to find him a new home to enjoy his golden years in.

It wasn’t long before we paired Ozzy with Brian – an experienced owner who wanted an older dog. And we’re pleased to say that he’s settled in perfectly. The sofa is still his favourite spot but Ozzy also likes to let his cheeky side out on walks and, much to Brian’s dismay, he’s an expert at finding fox poo to roll in!

I am delighted to say Ozzy has settled in very well, and he certainly gives the impression he is happy. We love him. All who meet him agree with us he is a very special dog.

Brian, Ozzy's new owner