When it comes to winning ways, there’s no doubt Women’s FA Cup semi-finalists Manchester United Women have got it licked, and now some of the dog-loving members of the squad are hoping they’ll help rescue dogs get the ultimate prize – a new forever home. 

Defenders Maria Thorisdottir and Millie Turner and midfielders Vilde Boe Risa and Lisa Naalsund took time out of their busy schedule to visit Dogs Trust Manchester to meet dogs of all shapes and sizes who have found themselves in need of new families. 

The senior squad players were given a tour of the Denton rehoming centre and were put through their paces by mum and daughter Lurchers Cleo and Luna. The players also met Hugo the Miniature Pinscher and spent time with nine-year-old Lurcher, Blue. 

Following the visit Maria said:   

“It has been fantastic visiting Dogs Trust Manchester. Meeting the dogs has been brilliant and finding out more about the charity and the amazing work it does to find dogs new homes has been wonderful. 

“All these lovely dogs deserve a forever, loving home and we really hope that anyone thinking of welcoming a dog into their life considers a rescue dog. We also found out about the Home from Home fostering scheme which means whilst dogs wait to find their forever families, they can enjoy home life with a volunteer foster carer. For anyone that wants some four-legged company but can’t have a dog of their own at the moment, it’s a wonderful solution!”   

Blue the Lurcher was found as a stray and is looking for an adult only home with no visiting children or other pets. He would love a private, secure garden where he can run around and play with his toys. He doesn’t like to be left home alone so leaving hours will need to be built up slowly in his new home and he would prefer to be walked in quieter areas, but he is happy to walk with other calm dogs. 

Carol Margieson, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, said: 

“It was fantastic to show the players around and talk to them about the lengths we go to to find our gorgeous dogs their perfect homes. They loved spending time with all the dogs and despite Blue’s name they really enjoyed playing with him and are hoping he will find the home he deserves very soon.” 

If you would like to find out more about Blue or any of the dogs waiting for forever homes at Dogs Trust Manchester, please go to www.dogstrust.org.uk where you can also find out more about becoming a foster carer.