Dog abandoned in alley with heartbreaking letter from previous owner | UK | News

A dog has been rescued after being abandoned in an alley with a heartbreaking letter from her previous owner.

Lilo, a nine-month-old French Bulldog, was brought to Battersea's London centre earlier this month by a dog warden who found her alone down a backstreet in the area.

There was a note from her former owner saying they could no longer keep her as their landlord had changed their mind about having dogs in the property.

The letter urged Lilo's finder to “find her a good home where she is free and happy”.

The young dog, described as happy and loving, has since been rehomed by the charity and is settling in well with her new owners.

Around one in 10 pets are brought to Battersea because their previous owners could not find anywhere to rent that would accept a pet.

Michael Webb, head of policy and public affairs at Battersea said: “Difficulty in accessing pet-friendly rental accommodation is, unfortunately, one of the most common reason Battersea sees owners bringing their pet to the charity for rehoming.”

The Renters’ Reform Bill introduced last May would make it possible for tenants in England to request pets and landlords would not be able to unreasonably deny them.

Landlords would also be able to ask renters to take out insurance against any potential damage their pets might cause.

Mr Webb added: “Battersea welcomes the legislation, which takes a step towards recognising the importance of pet ownership and its role in supporting the physical and mental health of owners.

“However, despite the Bill passing its second reading in September, there is still work to be done before the law changes and more renters and their pets can live happily together.

“As this Bill follows its long journey through Parliament, we look forward to continuing to work with the Housing department and the rental industry more broadly to help ensure a fairer rental sector for pets and people alike.”