When Milo first arrived at Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter, he was a picture of heartbreak—a young, trembling Cane Corso with wide, fearful eyes and fresh wounds around his mouth. His spirit seemed broken, as if each loud sound or sudden movement might be his last. Locked away in a dark cupboard and left alone for days, Milo had learned to survive by shrinking into himself. Cowering in the corner of his kennel, he barely made a sound, his deep growls more like whispers of his terror than true defiance. Each scar and bruise told us what words couldn’t: he had been let down by humans before.

Determined to help him heal, we immediately assigned a dedicated staff member to his care and set him up in a quiet, secluded room, away from the noise and bustle of the other animals. This safe space allowed Milo to begin his healing journey, where, day by day, he learned to feel safe again. Slowly, our team worked to rebuild his trust, patiently helping him find courage in small steps. Over time, he even underwent a crucial dental surgery to repair the damage from his past, one more step in his journey to health.

Through gentle care and endless patience, Milo began to trust again. Little by little, he started to venture out, meeting other people and even other animals. He learned to walk on a lead, climb stairs, and eventually play with his new friend, Nellie. After 51 days in our care, Milo’s transformation was complete: he found his forever home, leaving his troubled past behind for a future filled with love and joy.