RSPCA seeks loving home for 'Holly the Heroic' after major surgery at Stubbington Ark
A darling dog is looking for a new home
‘Holly the Heroic’ is looking for a new home after undergoing a major operation while in the care of The Stubbington Ark.
The one-year-old mixed bull breed was taken in by the animal centre in November 2025 after her owner could no longer care for her.
After multiple vet visits and consultations, it was confirmed Holly had severe patellar luxation, which is a condition where the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal groove in the thigh bone.
The team at the Ark reached out to their social media followers to request help in funding this major operation - and were met with an outpouring of support. Within 24 hours, they smashed their target of £1600, with overall donations exceeding £2000.
Holly successfully made it through the surgery, and after an intense 14 weeks of rest and rehabilitation, the team has now been able to put her up for adoption.
Lizzie Cessford, one of Holly's carers at the Ark says: "Holly is just such a great girl. She's bundles of fun, and her antics make us laugh every day. She's also a cuddly pup, who enjoys human affection.
“She's friendly with both dogs and humans alike. Due to her breed and bouncy nature, we believe she would be best placed in a home with older secondary school aged children."
Holly likes other dogs and can walk nicely on the lead alongside them but sometimes she will pull so will need someone strong who can hold onto her and is committed to supporting her.
The Ark said “while she has been recovering she has formed some really strong bonds to the staff and has become very loving and affectionate and will flop on your lap when she gets tired, she’s also a comedian.”
Due to her recent operation, Holly will need to carefully increase exercise levels and limit the chances of injuries going forward. She is currently on a hypoallergenic diet due to have severe allergies which cause her skin and ears to become sore.
A spokesperson added: “We are looking for a very enthusiastic home for Holly with a family that is prepared to adapt to her needs as she settles in and learns the ropes, she will need someone at home most of the time to begin with.”