Meet Tank, the abandoned Great Dane cross who thinks he’s really a Chihuahua!

A Great Dane cross who has been nursed back to health by the RSPCA after being abandoned at a house in Oldham is hoping big-hearted adopters will come forward and offer him a new home.

Tank, who according to staff at the charity’s Preston and District Branch, behaves more like a Chihuahua, was rescued by the animal welfare charity last July after he was left behind at a boarded up property in the Oldham area.

The skinny pet weighed 50kg (110.23 pounds) when rescued - which was underweight for a dog of his size - and his ribs were clearly visible.

Tank was also suffering from bilateral cherry eye which required treatment at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital. 

The loveable giant was cared for at private kennels on behalf of the charity for three months until a space became available at the Preston and District Branch’s animal centre in Ribbleton.

Because of his size, it was felt Tank would be more comfortable in a foster home, and after many months of care and rehabilitation he now weighs a much healthier 58kg (127.86 pounds) and has made a full recovery. 

Despite his past, Tank hasn't let anything phase him since coming into rescue, and his affectionate nature has won over everyone who meets him.

He’s described as a “real foodie” and has been very easy to train with tasty rewards.

Tanya Barrett, from the rehoming centre, said: “Once Tank had reached a healthy weight he was put up for adoption in January.

"We had some initial enquiries with potential applicants and he got reserved, but things didn’t progress any further and now the interest in him seems to have dropped off completely.

“He’s the biggest cuddle bug and loves nothing more than having a good play and then snuggling up on the sofa with his foster carers like a little lap dog.

"Despite his stature he really thinks he’s a Chihuahua and he makes everyone laugh with his antics.

“Of course he’s a large dog and he’ll eat more and take up a bit more space, but he’s got such an easy-going personality and he’s super friendly.

"We’ve rehomed 33 other dogs in the time that Tank’s been with us and we’re all really hoping it will be his turn soon as he’ll make a terrific companion.”

Tank is looking for a home with people who have experience of large breeds.

He can live with dog savvy children of secondary school age and possibly another compatible canine, but not cats.

He can be left on his own for short periods but will need ongoing training and support with this as he still gets a little worried if he’s left by himself.

If you think you can offer Tank the right type of home please email: info@rspca-preston.org.uk or call the centre on  01772 792553.

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