Meet Delboy, a tennis-ball obsessed French bulldog cross, searching for a forever home on the Fylde coast

The hunt is on to find a forever home for a cushty canine - named after the much-loved Only Fools and Horses character - who has spent over 600 days waiting for his new owner.

Delboy, a tennis-ball obsessed French bulldog cross, has been continually overlooked by potential adopters since arriving at the charity's Blackpool & North Lancashire Branch in October 2024.

Signed over into RSPCA care because of welfare concerns, the little dog was scared, unsure and nervous of new people at first, especially men.

Staff and volunteers have spent a long time patiently building up Delboy’s trust and confidence and say he has slowly blossomed into a sweet and affectionate dog who loves going on adventures to local beaches and long walks with other canine companions.

But despite the heartwarming progress he’s made, Delboy, three, has watched many other dogs come and go at Longview Animal Centre in Stalmine and is currently their longest-staying resident.

Staff, including his favourite handler, Animal Care Assistant Jamie Hackney, say they are bewildered as to why it’s taking so long for him to find his perfect match.

Branch Chief Executive Hannah Mainds, said: “We’re so proud of how far Delboy has come since he arrived - he’s really come into his own and loves the adventures that every new day brings.

“Staff at the centre have been so patient with him and it’s been a joy to watch him transform into a happy and much more confident character who enjoys life.

“We don’t have enough words to describe his love of tennis balls but obsessed, addicted and devoted would be some of them; if you’ve got one, you’re instantly his favourite human.

“Over 600 days in kennels is a long time for any dog. We currently don't have any other long stays so it's really sad he’s still with us, despite the many rehoming pushes we’ve done.

“We definitely thought he would be adopted sooner rather than later, although he’s a firm favourite with staff and volunteers so he’s getting plenty of love and attention from everyone in the meantime.”

Delboy, who is believed to be crossed with a British bulldog, can still be nervous of new people. His adopters will need to continue his training and, along with support from the centre’s clinical behaviourist, help show him the world isn't so scary so that he can continue to grow in confidence and adjust to life in a new home.

Also fond of a cheese treat, he is looking for a calm, adult-only home with someone who has experience of slightly nervous dogs. Although he often goes out on group dog walks at the centre, it’s felt Delboy would thrive better in a home as the only pet.

Please visit his rehoming page for more information and an application form. Details of all 42 animals currently looking for a home with the RSPCA’s Blackpool & North Lancashire Branch are available on their website.