Written by SPCA Grahamstown – Acting Vice-Chairperson: Michelle Bradley
Professional photography by Love Lee Photography
Never overlook the old dogs…
Old Man arrived at SPCA Grahamstown in January 2024, heartbroken and homeless after the death of his owner. Neighbours had tried their best to care for him, but he was a lonely little dog – frightened, confused, and grieving.
Old Man was estimated to be around nine or ten years old. He wasn’t used to a leash and was a no-fuss, low-energy dog who was always pleased to see visitors and loved being spoken to. He just wanted kindness.
In February 2024, Old Man received much-needed dental surgery – and a complimentary neutering as well! The SPCA Grahamstown team believed in their hearts that this gentle old boy had a family out there waiting for him.
Then came Morgan and Lilly White – long-time friends of the SPCA Grahamstown – for a visit. Little Lilly sensed Old Man’s sadness the moment she saw him alone in his kennel. It made her sad and she had so much empathy for him. The connection was instant, and it wasn’t long before adoption papers were signed, a home-check done, and Old Man’s life changed into a fairy tale!
He was renamed Winston George White, moved to a castle, and gets to sleep on a princess’ bed every night. A real happy-ever-after story!
Winston’s story is a powerful reminder to never overlook the old dog in the kennel.
They may move a little slower, they may rest a little more, but they carry years of quiet wisdom and hearts full of love just waiting to be shared. Sometimes, it takes a young heart to see what the world too easily overlooks.
Morgan White, Winston George’s new owner, shares...
We sometimes visit the SPCA as an outing for Lilly to meet the animals and socialise the cats.
This Saturday was meant to be a trip like any other – with no animals coming home! We already had four pets!
And there was Old Man...
All alone in an enclosure. The saddest dog we’d ever seen. Sad, old, crying. We asked what his story was and it broke our hearts. Knowing Old Man was a senior we realised that he’d struggle to find a home.
And so we agreed to take him home. It is and has been very important to us that Lilly grows up with pets and learns invaluable life skills of caring for and loving pets.
Next we decided that Old Man needed a dignified name to start his new life. One that would encapsulate his new status in our home. And so he became Winston George White.
And the rest is happy history!
