The 39 we have listed below come from just two of South Yorkshire’s largest animal charities - Thornberry Animal Sanctuary and Helping Yorkshire Poundies.
National Rescue Dog Day is held on May 20 to raise awareness of the countless number of amazing dogs in shelters around the country who deserve a second chance at a forever home.
Unbelievably, some of the pups below have been in care for six months or even longer - or, saddest of all, found a home but have been returned to the shelter for all sorts of reasons.
The include “project dogs” like Whiskey, the six-year-old Patterdale Crossbreed who was featured in a gallery of dogs by The Star in January 2025 - and is still waiting for a new home!
Others who have been waiting as many six months include Bear, a poorly Poodle Crossbreed who arrived at Thornberry in “terrible condition” and just needs a safe and secure garden to recuperate in.
Or how about Franklin, the three-year-old Cane Corso who Helping Yorkshire Poundies says will make “the most amazing companion” but has been waiting months for an experienced family that can handle his size and strength.
These dogs are just exploding with personality, and if any of them seem like a good fit for your household, simply visit the Helping Yorkshire Poundies and Thornberry Animal Sanctuary websites to find out more about the adoption process - the link for each is provided in the pictures below.
In the meantime, enjoy finding out about these 39 pooches below.
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37. Bear - Poodle Crossbreed, six years - has been waiting nearly 12 months!
"Bear arrived to Thornberry in terrible condition and we are unsure of his history prior to Thornberry. Here Bear has thrived with routine and is every volunteers favourite. He loves to sit on a bench and watch things go by and is our number one dog to make meet new dogs. Bear has been rehomed from Thornberry but was very fearful when trying to rest and easily started. He should have a safe space or area in his new home where he can slowly adjust to home life. Bear could live with other dogs and should have a home understanding of his past! "Please note - Bear has bitten multiple times as is a very complicated boy. We are looking for a home with experience of aggression." - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/bear-2/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
38. Albus, Lurcher Crossbreed, one year
"Albus is a boisterous young boy who would benefit from experienced owners and a home who are able to continue his training. Albus is crate trained and house trained. Albus is a very social boy and would enjoy the company of another well mannered adult dog (although this is not essential providing he has lots of friends). Albus is best suited to a home adult only and a home crazy about Lurchers and their quirks! Albus enjoys spending time outdoors so an active home would be beneficial for him. Albus does have Hypothyroidism which he will require ongoing medication for." Albus has been waiting for a home since January 2025! - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/albus/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary
39. Whiskey, Patterdale Crossbreed, six years - has been waiting for a home for over six months!
"Whiskey is a ‘project dog’ who would thrive in a home with owners committed to the needs of our gorgeous girl. Whiskey has been with us long term, almost half of her life – but we believe there is a home out there for her as she is the most playful, fun and affectionate girl when she has a relationship with you. She is only small in size but incredibly agile, so will need a very secure garden space. Our pocket rocket loves nothing more than a tennis ball and this is the best way to make friends. Whiskey struggles with new people and can be easily overwhelmed and ‘react’. In her previous home (all be it years ago) she was very distressed when left alone which makes her long stay in kennels more and more heartbreaking. She is not comfortable to interact with other dogs and will need access to quiet walking areas. Whiskey does wear a muzzle when in public but is comfortable to do so. She is very good at travelling and is partial to a puppachino with her favourite dog walker. If you feel you could meet the needs of Whiskey please enquire – and note we will not consider any homes with children, pets or in a ‘busy’ area." - https://www.thornberryanimalsanctuary.org/animals/whiskey/ | Thornberry Animal Sanctuary