Dog finds home after two-year rescue centre wait

24 December 2025

Charis Scott-HolmEast Yorkshire and Lincolnshire

News image — Winston has quickly settled into his new home in Goole

Debbie Shipley A large brown and black dog stands on its hind legs and rests its forelegs on a shelf as it looks out of a lounge window in what appears to be a suburban house. — Winston has quickly settled into his new home in Goole

A "gentle giant" who spent almost two years at a dog rescue centre because of his size has found a new home in time for Christmas.

Debbie and Mark Shipley, from Goole, adopted Winston from Hull Animal Welfare Trust on Sunday after he only had one visit in the 22 months he spent there.

Mrs Shipley, 51, said she "saw him and fell in love", describing him as a "lovely, goofy, giant ball of fun".

Sue Sewell, chief executive of Hull Animal Welfare Trust, said Winston was a "lovely dog" and she "couldn't understand why no one came for him" - putting his long stay at the rescue centre down to his large stature.

Mrs Shipley said it was "heart wrenching" how long Winston had been at the centre in South Cave and said since moving into their home he has been "jumping up at the window, probably because he has not had that scenery to look at".

She said she was looking forward to family dog walks together, so he could have "lots of interaction" with other people and dogs.

Hull Animal Welfare Trust A mother, father and teenage son, all wearing winter outdoor clothing, pose for a photo with rescue dog Winston. The father kneels behind the large dog with his hands resting on its sides. The mother and son stand behind. All are smiling. — Debbie, Mark and Zac Shipley with "lovely" dog Winston

Mrs Sewell said: "Long stay dogs get into our hearts and souls, because you really get to know them, and it's heart breaking to see them get overlooked.

"I think people are looking for smaller dogs in general, and people hadn't considered Winston because of his size."

She said Winston being being rehomed for the festive period was "best Christmas present ever".

Debbie Shipley A dog lays down on the sofa on a fluffy blanket, his head peeks out over the top of a cushion. — Winston's new family say he is a "giant ball of fun"

The Shipley family decided to look into adopting a dog after losing their black Labrador Betsy five weeks ago.

They considered adopting a puppy, then "another black Lab", before something drew them to Winston.

Mr Shipley said: "We were a little bit uncertain at first, but we went to meet him at Hull Animal Welfare.

"When he walked out it was almost like he lit up, he came straight over to us."

He said a second visit to the rescue confirmed "the connection was absolutely there".

Mr Shipley described him as "like already part of the family" and Mrs Shipley said she was looking forward to them all spending time together over the Christmas break.

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