IT WILL be a very special Christmas for a formerly stray dog who will be spending Christmas in his forever home.

Woody, a one-year-old Cocker Spaniel, was supported by staff at Dogs Trust Evesham to defy all the odds to overcome potentially fatal health problems and enjoy Christmas with his new family in Worcester.  

Woody was discovered as a sickly stray and taken in by the dedicated team at Dogs Trust Evesham, in Wickhamford, earlier this year.

It was suspected he might have parvovirus, a highly contagious and often-fatal virus known for causing severe illness.  

Evesham Journal: MIRACLE: Dogs Trust helped poorly Cocker Spaniel Woody find a home for ChristmasMIRACLE: Dogs Trust helped poorly Cocker Spaniel Woody find a home for Christmas (Image: Dogs Trust Evesham)

However, thanks to the care of the team at Dogs Trust Evesham, Woody defied the odds to recover and is now gearing up for his first festive season in a loving home. 

Woody was adopted in April 2023 by Lisa and Matt Turley from Dogs Trust Evesham, and since then his confidence has been shining through, and he is a very happy boy.

He is now relishing home comforts, with his paws up in front of the fire and looking forward to experiencing his first-ever doggy Christmas dinner. 

Mrs Turley said: “We saw Woody on the Dogs Trust website and just knew we had to apply.

"While initially disheartened by our unsuccessful attempt, our spirits were lifted when we received a call informing us that the previous family had reconsidered. 

"We didn't hesitate to say yes. 

Evesham Journal: GOOD BOY: Woody is happy to have a forever home for ChristmasGOOD BOY: Woody is happy to have a forever home for Christmas (Image: Dogs Trust Evesham)

"We are excited to have Woody with us for Christmas.

"The staff at Dogs Trust Evesham clearly cared for him, and because he's been through so much, we feel even more connected to him.” 

Chris Slight, rehoming centre manager at Dogs Trust Evesham, said: “When Woody first came into us, he was an incredibly poorly boy.

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"However, our team has worked hard to support his recovery, and we're thrilled to have been part of his journey, especially as he gears up for his first Christmas in a loving home. 

“Every dog deserves to find their special someone, and this doesn’t change because it’s Christmas.

"Dog ownership is a wonderful thing, but, as our slogan says, A Dog is for Life, Not Just for Christmas.

"Dog ownership is a lifelong commitment which must be carefully considered. 

"We’re pleased that Woody has found a home, not just for this Christmas but for many more to come.” 

To learn more about Woody's story or to find out more about adopting a dog visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/evesham.