A dog was just 12-weeks-old when he was brought into an animal hospital with signs of abuse, but now he gets to celebrate his ‘first proper' Christmas with the veterinarian nurse who helped save him.

Terry the Whippet arrived at the Hull PDSA Animal Hospital in East Yorkshire, England, where he was treated by nurse Rachel Coombes.

The 42-year-old fell in love with the puppy and told her colleagues that she would adopt him, and later brought him into her home.

"I just felt a connection as soon as he was brought in, as he was in such a state."

"He hasn't looked back since—and is having the best of life right now. He enjoys running around the garden and going to the beach.

"He has formed a close bond with my son Stanley and will always be there by his side."

After Terry was brought into the vets in November 2021, the vet discovered the white of his left eye and his lips were both bruised. Three of his upper incisors were missing and another tooth was broken.

Due to his suspicious injuries, RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was asked to investigate. She said, even though he was in a sad state, he was very trusting'.

"He was really quiet and withdrawn when he was with people," said Inspector Barber. "I remember him coming over to me and putting his head on me and being so trusting."

Terry's owner appeared in court, where he admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a dog and was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals.

Emily Lomas, an animal care assistant at the RSPCA's Hull branch, says she was ‘thrilled' when she found out Rachel had adopted him.

"He was overwhelmed when he came to us so we had to really show him there was nothing to be scared of and that he was now safe," she recalled. "We took him to the socialization room and I remember him falling asleep on my legs."

"He was so lovable so it's great to see he has the home he deserves with such a lovely family."

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