Isle Of Wight Stray Dog Who "Just Wants To Feel Loved" Is Rehomed

A stray dog described as “full of joy and just wanting to feel loved” has found a new forever home thanks to the Isle of Wight Council’s Public Realm Officer Team — and the kindness of the Island community.

Django, a six-year-old Staffordshire Terrier, was discovered tied up outside the Friends of the Animals shop in Sandown on 12 November.

With no owner in sight, he was taken into the care of the council’s Public Realm Team, who worked for weeks to find him a safe and permanent home.

Supported by Friends of the Animals, Django has now been successfully rehomed.

A dog is classed as a stray when it is found in a public place, or on private land without permission, and is not under anyone’s control.

Natasha Dix, the Isle of Wight Council’s service director for waste, environment and planning, said:

“We all need to remember the promise we make when we welcome a dog into our homes — a promise to love and care for them for life.

"Django is a big, happy boy, full of joy. All he wants is to feel loved and enjoy great walks.

“We’re so grateful to everyone who shared our posts, offered support and helped Django find a loving new home.

"With help from the RSPCA, Friends of the Animals, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, and local vets, Django is now ready to thrive.”

Django’s rehoming comes just days after the council approved its Stray Dog Policy 2025–2028, which outlines how stray dogs will be cared for on the Island.

The council provides food, shelter and emergency veterinary support, with all dogs housed in licensed kennels that meet welfare standards under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and DEFRA’s model conditions.

Between 2021 and 2023, 35 stray dogs were reported across the Island, including 10 in the past six months alone.

Ms Dix added:

“The Isle of Wight Council will always stand by a dog’s side, and with Django we’ve seen what a strong community of dog lovers we are.”

Although Django was microchipped, his details were out of date.

Under the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2023, all dogs over eight weeks old must be microchipped and registered on an approved database — and owners must keep details up to date.

The council hopes its updated Stray Dog Policy will further promote responsible dog ownership across the Island.