They haven’t had the nicest start in life.

Every day, a new scared and confused dog arrives on the doorstep of Cork Dog Action Welfare (DAWG). Sometimes the animal has been cruelly dumped or abandoned.

Other times, its owner can no longer look after it.

What’s true in every different case is that another friendly, loyal and accepting dog is out in the world alone until a loving owner steps up to give it the fun-filled, caring home it deserves.

Here are three lovely puppies in need of a place to live this week:

Willow

Willow is a six-month-old collie puppy. She is a very active and clever girl. Willow is looking for a home where she would be the only dog and collie experience would be ideal.

Willow needs a home where she gets the exercise her breed requires – she would be an eager hiking companion, so if you love the great outdoors, she’ll be the perfect companion for you.

Willow is at the nipping stage of puppyhood so children over ten only. You can apply to meet Willow online here.

Mika

Mika is an eight-week-old adorable Akita/German Shepherd cross. She is extremely friendly and loving, but is also happy to lay by herself while watching TV.

“She gets along with dogs and children, and loves cuddles and playing.” say the DAWG crew, “She has very loving eyes, and her name means “beauty” in Japanese.” Mika will be a large breed so experience with large breed is a must.

Mika will do better with children who are over eight years of age and in a home where she isn’t left alone for long hours. Interested? Apply online here.

Baby

Baby the lurcher pup is nine months-old and still looking for her forever home. She is fully housetrained, very well socialised and has a beautiful nature. Children over five and an enclosed garden are a must for any potential new owners.

DAWG staff say that Baby would best suit a home with big dogs, but she will do fine as the only dog too. To enquire about meeting Baby, apply online here.

Bonnie

Just nine-weeks-old, Bonnie is a German Shepherd with all the best traits of the breed. Beautiful, clever and active she is looking for a forever home where her new owners are experienced with the breed. Apply online here.

Matilda

A staffie cross, just 10 weeks-old, poor Matilda was attacked on the street by a large dog . Luckily somebody saw what happened and called the emergency vet. Matilda has extensive injuries to her face and is looking at a long recovery process. However, DAWG staff say that despite her significant pain, she is still wagging her tail.

If you would like to make a €4 donation towards Matilda’s care, text CDAWG to 50300.

Yay Cork is a proud supporter of Cork Dog Action Welfare. You don’t have to adopt a dog to help out; you can also donate €4 by texting CDAWG to 50300. Cork DAWG will receive a minimum of €3.25.