Mr Bojangles – In foster

Please welcome the newest members of the ever-growing GBSR family… Mr Bojangles.

This isn’t our usual foster introduction, but we feel it’s important to explain how these two beautiful Bulldogs came into our care.

Around six weeks ago, we were made aware of concerns regarding the welfare of four Bulldogs.

As a registered rescue, we have a responsibility to follow the correct legal procedures. That means working alongside the appropriate agencies, allowing investigations to take place where necessary, and waiting for the correct surrender paperwork. It isn’t always the quickest process, but it is the right one—for the dogs, the families involved, and our rescue.

Unfortunately, before that process could be run its course, the situation spread rapidly across social media.

As emotions grew, so did the abuse. The family involved experienced harassment, intimidation and threats. Whatever anyone’s personal opinions, no one deserves to live in fear.

The relevant authorities investigated the concerns, and no enforcement action was taken. As more information came to light, it became clear the circumstances were far more complex than they had first appeared online.

Over the following weeks, we remained in daily contact with the owner. Throughout that time, she was utterly devastated. Every conversation was filled with tears, heartbreak and an overwhelming fear for the safety of her family and her dogs.

Sadly, the family have reported ongoing intimidation, with people attending their home, monitoring the property and making threats relating to the dogs. We have provided information to the police and are fully cooperating with their investigation into the reported behaviour.

Our priority has always been the welfare of the dogs, but we cannot ignore the impact this has had on the vulnerable members of the household, including a child.

Ironically, the behaviour of those claiming to be helping only created more fear and instability. Because of concerns for the dogs’ safety, they had to be moved between safe locations to reduce the risk of them being taken. That upheaval caused unnecessary stress for dogs who desperately needed stability.

In time, the owner made the incredibly difficult decision to surrender two of the Bulldogs into our care. We know how heartbreaking that decision was, and we are simply grateful she trusted us to give Maisie and Mr Bojangles the future they deserve.

We also know where the other two Bulldogs are, and they are safe, well and being cared for.

As we got to know everyone involved, it became clear this was never a simple black-and-white story. We won’t pretend to know every detail, nor will we publicly judge or shame anyone. Our responsibility has always been, and always will be, the welfare of the dogs.

We also want to be absolutely clear.

Vigilante behaviour is never acceptable.

If you genuinely believe an animal is suffering, report your concerns to the appropriate authorities. They have the legal responsibility and powers to investigate and act where necessary.

Harassment, intimidation, impersonating welfare officers, trespassing, unlawfully using drones, or encouraging abuse online does not protect animals. It places people in fear and can make it far more difficult to achieve the best outcome for the dogs.

We cannot become the enemy.

Rescue must always be built on education, compassion and empathy. By building trust with owners, we create opportunities for dogs to receive the help they need. Sometimes the bravest thing an owner can do is ask for that help.

Meet Mr Bojangles

Mr Bo is a handsome 5-year-old gentleman who arrived shortly after Maisie.

Thankfully, he has settled into foster much more quickly and is already showing us his cheeky personality.

Sadly, years of untreated medical issues mean he will need one of his eyes removed, along with dental treatment, all of which will be carried out as part of his veterinary care.

Despite everything, he is already proving to be an affectionate, lovable rogue who much prefers relaxing on soft grass than hard surfaces.

Both Maisie and Mr Bojangles have difficult journeys behind them, but they now have what every Bulldog deserves…

❤️ A safe place. ❤️ A warm bed. ❤️ Full bellies. ❤️ Veterinary care. ❤️ Patience. ❤️ Kindness. ❤️ And a future filled with love.

Welcome to the GBSR family, Maisie and Mr Bojangles.

Your new lives start here. 💜

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