Coco the dog finds new home with Tuggerawong tradie after 440 days in rescue shelter

COCO the dog had been homeless for 440 days. But the Express Advocate’s mission to find her a home took just a few short hours after a local tradie spotted our story during his smoko break.

SoCares animal attendant Christina Gilescarer with Coco the dog before she left the facility on Wednesday.

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THE Express Advocate’s mission to find Coco the dog a home has ended in triumph.

After spending over 440 days in a rescue shelter, it took just a few short hours for one smitten reader to meet their new four-legged friend.

Tuggerawong tradie Adam Troy spotted our story during his smoko break before heading straight to So Cares Wyong Animal Care Facility after work late yesterday.

It was love at first sight for the adorable chocolate brown staffy who immediately lapped up the attention and affection of her new owner.

Proud new owner Adam Troy with a very happy Coco.

Coco spent 440 days at SoCares animal care facility. Picture by Mark Scott

“As soon as I saw her picture in the paper, my heart went out to the poor little darling,” Mr Troy said.

“It just made me so sad to hear.

“I rang my wife on the way to SoCares — she knows I have a soft spot!

“She’s such a lovely natured dog and very placid.”

The father-of-three also headed straight to the pet shop to pick out new toys and supplies for the new addition to the family.

Mr Troy leaving SoCares in Charmhaven with his new best mate.

Mr Troy said despite a sleepless night helping Coco settle into her new surroundings, the pair were out early this morning on their first walk together.

“She had a ball on her walk and was very happy,” the 53-year-old said.

“She’s already taken to cuddling up to me ... it’s very sweet.

“I’d encourage other people to give SoCares and other rescue shelters a chance.

“I mean, how would you feel to be put in a pound for nobody to love you?”

Coco was a happy camper leaving the shelter where she’s spent over half her life.

Facility manager Danielle Groococh said the So Cares team were “over the moon” to see Coco united with a new best friend.

“There were lots of tears,” Ms Groococh said.

“It was a really lovely experience to see.

“She adores [her new owner] and followed him around the whole time he was here.

SoCares staff were “over the moon” to see Coco find a new home.

“Coco now has a massive fan club and everyone wants to keep updated with her progress and new home.”

Coco’s heartbreaking 14-month stay makes her So Cares’ longest impounded resident since the Charmhaven facility opened in 2014.

At just over two years old, the loveable staffy spent half her life in the shelter­.

It usually takes an average of just 22 days for staff to ­rehome stray and unwanted animals.

To adopt a rescue dog or cat, contact SoCares on 4350 3184.