A HOMELESS hound who has spent three years searching for his forever home has celebrated his tenth birthday.

Cody, who has been a long-term resident at Dogs Trust Salisbury, was treated to an extra special birthday party at the rehoming centre in Newton Tony.

On average, most dogs that arrive at Dogs Trust find new homes within 42 days, but some need a little extra TLC and are cared for for as long as it takes to find a forever family.

On the big day, Cody enjoyed an extra special long walk, had lots of fuss made of him and spent time in the paddock with his favourite canine carers.

He had some extra special treats and his kennel was decorated too. In return he gave out high fives and showed off his repertoire of tricks.

Becs Marchant, training and behaviour advisor and Cody’s best friend at Dogs Trust Salisbury, said: “We loved celebrating Cody’s tenth birthday – and he had a great day, too.

"He’s been with us a little while now and although on a couple of occasions it looked like he’d found his ideal home, it wasn’t meant to be, so we have the privilege of looking after him until he does.

“He can get worried around people he doesn’t know but he has formed wonderful bonds during his time here so with time and patience in the right home, Cody will be a fantastic companion. He’s looking for an adult-only home where new owners can work with him to build up his trust. One way to his heart is through training in return for tasty treats – he’s so clever and thrives on pleasing his humans once he knows them.

“As Cody is getting on in years, he’s slightly stiff in his back legs so would prefer a home with no stairs, or be able to spend all of his time downstairs, with access to a large secure garden so he can stretch his legs in an area away from other dogs.”

Dogs Trust Salisbury cares for at least 100 dogs at any one time and last year found forever homes for around 500. Already this year the team have said a fond farewell to more than 300 dogs who have headed off with their new families.

Becs adds: “Dogs Trust never puts a healthy dog to sleep so we’ll care for them until they find a forever family – no matter how long that takes. Cody is a happy lad here and is a real character, but we’d love for him to find a perfect home in his tenth year.”

Anyone interested in giving Cody a home call 0300 303 0292 or visit the centre at 45 Amesbury Road, Newton Tony.