He’s had a horrible start in life.

When Hero the hound arrived at the Dog Action Welfare Shelter, he was hungry, shivering and terrified.

An eating disorder meant he had to be hand-fed three times a day to keep his strength up as he recovered. Understandably, he had lost his faith in humans.

Anyone who met Hero back in September wouldn’t recognise him now; thanks to the kindness and care of DAWG volunteers, he’s blossomed into a curious, fun loving dog with a new love for people and a fresh take on life.

Now all he needs is a forever home… and he isn’t having the best luck.

Hero has been at the shelter for four months now, despite the fact that his eating issues have been solved and he’s back to full health.

He loves a game of fetch and one of his favourite pastimes is hanging his head out the car window on drives…

He also adores the company of other dogs (particularly dogs who like running and wrestling on the beach) and he is loving and loyal to humans he becomes familiar with.

“His recall is good, his lead training is iffy but then no one is perfect,” DAWG’s Claudia Cashman told Yay Cork. “He’d make a wonderful addition to a home where he’s not the only dog and he’s got someone with enough energy to keep up with his enthusiasm for life.”

If you think you might be able to give Hero his forever home, click here or call 083 171 4307. Homechecks are carried out to ensure that every Cork DAWG resident goes to a suitable home.