Last week, Defra Minister David Rutley announced that a ban on third party puppy and kitten sales – aka “Lucy’s Law” – was being laid in parliament, and will come into effect on 6 April 2020.

For one particular dog at Mayhew, such legislation is the much needed light at the end of the tunnel.

Cyril, an eight-year-old male Pomeranian, came to us after being attacked by another dog. He was covered in deep wounds, had heavily matted fur and was missing a couple of teeth. We suspected that he had been kept in poor quality conditions on a puppy farm, and had possibly been used for breeding.

Our Vets immediately cleaned and flushed Cyril’s wounds, and gave him pain relief, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics. He also had a full health and dental check, including a scale and polish of his remaining teeth.

Whilst settling him in to a warm and cosy cabin to begin his recovery, our Kennels team noticed that Cyril showed signs of psychological trauma as he repeatedly walked in tight circles – indicating he’d previously been confined to an extremely small area.

He was also incredibly possessive of any food and toys that were given to him, and we surmised that this was most likely a sign he had been mistreated and neglected over a long period of time.

We were determined to help bring Cyril out of his shell, and started a gentle rehabilitation programme – and happily, our care and dedication soon began to reap rewards.

As the days went by Cyril began to trust us, and as he grew more comfortable and curious, he started to reveal a friendly and playful personality. We discovered that he enjoyed nothing more than cuddles and companionship – except perhaps a long walk and the chance to stretch his little legs!

Before being ready for adoption Cyril was neutered, and our Vets also decided to completely shave off his matted fur, to remove any discomfort and irritation and to ensure Cyril could start a brand new life with nothing to remind him of his past traumas.

Thankfully, dogs like Cyril and their offspring will now be protected under Lucy’s Law, which demands that anyone looking to buy a puppy or kitten will have to adopt them from a rehoming shelter or deal directly with a licensed breeder – who in turn must meet certain welfare conditions under their license agreement.

Cyril is now on the hunt for his pawfect family, and is looking forward to his happily forever after – if you think you can give him the right home, please call Reception on 020 8962 8000 to speak to our Adoption Officers in more detail.