Cai
EPILEPTIC - SPECIAL HOME REQUIRED
About me
- Can I live with other dogs? Potentially - In Cai's previous home, he shared space with a Labrador and was quite eager, often attempting to hump him. Since joining us, Cai has met a staff member's spaniel with no problems at all. We did try introducing him to another staff member's Labrador, but both dogs showed signs that they weren't quite ready to be off lead together. Considering Cai’s cluster seizure episodes that began in February 2026, we would need to undergo a few meet and greets with the successful applicant (dogs included) before moving ahead to the next stage in the process.
- Can I live with teenagers? Yes - 16+
- Can I live with young children? No - 13+ - Cai has never lived with young children & due to his energy, could potentially knock them over, so he would be better suited for a home with older children.
- Do I have any medical issues? Yes - When Cai first arrived, he had a thorough health check at the vet, and everything came back clear. We know that in his previous home, he experienced a seizure, which the vet attributed to the potential use of the wrong flea treatment that may have caused the reaction. Unfortunately, in February 2026, Cai had six seizures in a row that occurred unexpectedly one morning (not related to any treatment he had been given). He is now on REGULAR medication to manage these episodes. For more details, please reach out to our dog assessor and trainer, Gary Mathlin. Cai's medication is currently being administered OUT OF HOURS at the Sanctuary. Dosage times for potential adopters to be aware of: 6:30am, 2:30pm, 4:45pm, 10pm. These medications are potentially LIFE LONG. Cai is fully vaccinated, with his next vaccinations due on May 22nd, 2026. Although he hasn’t been neutered yet, he is currently too young for the procedure.
- Can I live with cats? No - Cai has never lived with a cat before & therefore, would be best suited to a cat free home
- Am I good on the lead? No - Cai tends to pull quite a bit on the lead, primarily because he comes from a working line and has a strong desire to run. He hasn’t received any loose lead training in the past, which likely contributes to his need for freedom. At this stage, Cai isn’t the type of dog who will walk to heel he simply wants to be off lead enjoying himself! The team has dedicated several weeks to loose lead training with him, and while he had shown significant improvement, before the seizures, he now quickly shifts from walking nicely without pulling (especially when treats are involved) to trying to escape his equipment in favour of running freely in our secure paddocks. This change in behaviour has occurred since his cluster seizures, he was much calmer on walks before and now constantly yearns for off lead runs. Which we are more than happy to give him. Ideally, Cai would thrive in a home with an extra large garden where he has ample space to run and play fetch to his heart's content.
- What was the reason for my surrender? Cai came to us because his elderly owners were facing health issues and could no longer care for him.
- What am I like when I travel in a vehicle? Cai travels well in a crate inside a van. He will jump in & out without issue.
- Do I have any fears? Not that we know of!
Cai is a lovable young boy eager for a new adventure!
This handsome pup comes from a working line, and he has a strong passion for training. However, his attention span is quite short, and he’ll let you know when he’s had enough by grabbing his favourite toy and playfully throwing it at you, using your head as a target is one of his favourite moves! Then, he’s right back to the “let’s play fetch for ages!” position.
Cai would thrive with active adopters with lots of space, who understand collies and can provide him with the exercise, mental stimulation, enrichment, and training he needs. His current favourite toy is a plastic chicken, which he has hilariously bounced off a few staff members’ heads, his enthusiasm truly knows no bounds!
He also has a tendency to launch himself at you with a body slam when he gets overly excited about a toy he wants you to throw, so adopters should be steady on their feet and aware of his energy. Cai loves living life in the fast lane, and his new family will need to keep up!
Cues Cai knows: “sit”, “down”, “wait”, “paw”, “place”.
He’s an absolute character to be around, and the staff & volunteers adore him. Once he’s had his fill of exercise and brain games, he’ll happily retreat to lay in the shade, come over for a cuddle, or return to his kennel for a well deserved timeout. While he doesn’t have a lot of stamina, likely due to kennel life and the fact that he experienced six cluster seizures in a row in February 2026, Cai is still full of life but is sadly, not the same dog he was when he first arrived. We truly hope this darling boy finds a comforting home very soon.
Apply for Cai
Is Cai the right pet for you? Use the links below to begin the application process. Alternatively, get in touch via phone or email.
Can't adopt Cai? You can still help!
Not everyone can offer a forever home – but you can still change Cai’s life, and the lives of many more animals like them.
By donating to All Creatures Great and Small, you’re helping us provide food, shelter, veterinary care, and round-the-clock love to animals who’ve lost everything. Cai’s story is just one of many – but with your support, none of them have to face it alone.
Your gift today helps us keep the kennel doors open, the blankets warm, and hope alive.
Every pound makes a difference. Every life is worth it.
