Rescue dog Pie finds perfect forever home after 246-day wait

A lovable rescue dog named Pie has found her happily ever after after being adopted from Dogs Trust Manchester earlier this year.

Pie, a two-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, had been in the charity’s care since June 2025 and waited 246 days to find her forever family. She officially joined her new home at the beginning of February, following a gradual introduction process designed to build trust and ensure the perfect match.

It was clear from the very first meeting that Pie had found her people. When she spotted her future adopters through the glass at the rehoming centre in late December 2025, she excitedly wagged her tail and proudly gathered her toys and blankets to show them. Staff noted that although Pie would often bark at passers-by, she appeared calm, happy and relaxed with her visitors.

Helen Healy, who adopted Pie alongside her partner Mark, said: “We fell in love with her pretty face and playful personality. She gave us lots of eye contact, and in that moment, we said that Pie chose us. She’s the sweetest little slice of happiness we could have asked for.”

Since settling into her new home, Pie has quickly become a much-loved member of the family. Her playful and affectionate personality shines through every day, whether she’s proudly carrying her favourite squeaky toys or enjoying treats – with raw carrots and bananas among her top snacks.

Pie has also brought comfort during a difficult time for her new family. Helen added: “My dad sadly and suddenly passed away last August. Mark and I had been thinking about adopting a dog for years, but going through such a significant loss really changes how you see life. Pie has helped me so much, and she has brought love and joy into our lives again.”

The affectionate pooch is known for her love of cuddles, often wrapping her paws around her owners’ shoulders and covering them with kisses. With no concept of personal space, Pie makes sure there is always plenty of love to go around.

Her journey to finding a home was supported by Dogs Trust’s dedicated team, who worked closely with her on behavioural challenges. Lisa Eardley, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, said: “Pie was quite obsessed with food, struggled with strangers and was especially scared of the vet. After working with the behaviour team, we are over the moon that Pie has overcome these issues and has settled in brilliantly to her new home.

“It’s thanks to support from the players of Postcode Lottery, who have raised such an incredible amount over the years, that we are able to continue to care for dogs like Pie. We couldn’t achieve what we do without you.”

Dogs Trust has been able to help dogs like Pie thanks to the generosity of Postcode Lottery players, who have raised over £30 million for the charity since 2014. The funding has supported the care of more than 125,000 dogs across 21 rehoming centres nationwide, as well as vital work by training, behaviour and welfare specialists, foster teams and volunteers.

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery, said: “It’s amazing that players have raised over £30 million for Dogs Trust. This funding has transformed the lives of thousands of dogs who are now happy and safe in their forever homes thanks to the Dogs Trust team. Their incredible work continues to give pups in need a second chance at the love and care they deserve.”

For more information about dogs available for adoption, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/manchester.