About
Willum's Happy Tale – A Story of Love and Patience
Willum found his forever home through BCR at 11 years old. Given his age and some uncertainty about how he might cope with fireworks, it was agreed with his foster family that he would wait until the noise of Bonfire Night had passed before making the journey to his new life.
When the big day arrived, his new mum met his foster family halfway between Hertfordshire and Wales — and Willum travelled to his new home in true Chihuahua style, riding up front in his “throne” in an MX5 like the fashionable gentleman he is.
Love at first sight
Once home, he was introduced to Milo — his new brother (from another mother… and father!). They may not be inseparable best friends, but they’ve learned to happily share sofas, beds, walks, humans and even queue politely for lunch.
Willum had a tough emotional start. After spending his whole life in one home, he experienced enormous change in a short space of time. When he first arrived, he was very shut down — understandably overwhelmed and unsure.
Indoors, he has blossomed into the ultimate couch potato. He even has his own little staircase so he can follow his mum everywhere — including to the bathroom.
Outside the home, he’s still finding his confidence. We think he may have been what we fondly call a “garden Chihuahua,” not used to the wider world. But progress has been gentle and steady.
Helping Willum settle has been a journey built on patience and love. His mum sought support from a behaviourist and has worked consistently to help him adjust. Early on, he was reactive to sounds and had a very high-pitched bark, which was challenging — especially for his noise-sensitive human sister. With time, understanding and reassurance, things have steadily improved.
He’s also had a wonderful physical glow-up — dropping a few “dress sizes,” having his nails clipped, enjoying a full groom, and transforming his dry, dull coat into one that’s now soft and silky thanks to lots of tender loving care.
Willum now enjoys life as an “office dog,” accompanying his mum to work once a week. He’s become quite the little traveller too, visiting their holiday home in the Lincolnshire woods and enjoying several seaside adventures — each one bringing a little more curiosity and confidence.
Next up? A road trip, hopefully with the roof down and his ears flapping in the wind.
This dear boy may have had a later start to his forever life, but he’s now living it fully and at his own pace. Willum is deeply loved, and his mum is committed to giving him all the care, comfort and patience he needs for however long they have together.
Thank you to everyone who helped Willum along the way — stories like his are only possible because of you.
