Bobby and Socks: Love at first sight
Some friendships truly are meant to be — even when they’re a little unexpected. For nine-year-old Jack Russell Bobby, comfort and companionship have always come in the form of cats. And, wonderfully, the cats in his life have always felt the same way about him.
A difficult start for a very special dog
Bobby didn’t have the easiest beginning. He spent long periods alone at home and even in the car, which left him struggling with severe anxiety.
But everything changed when he was adopted by a loving family — one that happened to include four cats.
Against the odds, Bobby found everything he’d been missing in his feline companions. He curled up with them in their bed, lined up beside them at dinnertime, and formed a particularly strong bond with one special cat. They were best friends: playing, grooming, and supporting each other every day.
A life-changing attack
Sadly, after Bobby was attacked by two dogs in the park, his anxiety worsened. His family, juggling the needs of young children and busy work lives, made the heartbreaking decision to rehome him somewhere quieter and calmer — somewhere he could get the dedicated care he needed.
Thanks to our member charity Blue Cross and their Home Direct scheme, Bobby was able to stay with his original family while the search began for his perfect forever home.
The search begins — with one very special requirement
At the Blue Cross Manchester Rehoming and Advice Unit, Bobby was assessed so the team could find a home that matched his needs — especially his unique love for cats.
“Bobby was anxious when he came in but so brave,” says Emily, Adoptions and Veterinary Coordinator. “We all fell in love with him. We worried about him losing his cat friend, so we highlighted in his adoption profile that he’d love a home with a friendly cat.”
It was a tall order. A dog who needed a cat, and a cat who would welcome a dog? It felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fate had other plans.
An hour away in Sheffield, a cat named Socks was struggling with grief. Her beloved companion, Ziggy the Patterdale terrier, had recently passed away at 16 years old.
Socks, who had been devoted to Ziggy her entire life, was heartbroken. She searched the house constantly, and even her coat had lost its shine.
Seeing her decline, her guardians Rob and Karen made a difficult decision. Although they thought they’d never adopt another dog after losing Ziggy, they realised Socks desperately needed a companion.
Then they saw Bobby’s profile — and everything changed.
Love at first sight
Rob and Karen travelled to Manchester to meet Bobby. The Blue Cross team explained his anxiety, his past, and his love for cats. Rob and Karen showed them photos of Socks. Everyone hoped this could be the match Bobby – and Socks – needed.
After a further successful visit, Rob returned on the third day to bring Bobby home.
Rob and Karen had prepared with a stairgate, expecting a long introduction period. But when Bobby stepped inside and glimpsed Socks perched on her cat tree, his tail began to wag joyfully. Socks’ eyes widened. She leapt down, approached him… and Bobby gently licked her face.
It was instant. A connection just like the one she’d shared with Ziggy. The stairgate was never needed.
A bond that heals
The Blue Cross team had prepared Rob and Karen for a long settling-in period. But with Socks by his side, Bobby quickly found peace and security.
“Socks was like his bodyguard at first,” Rob says. “She walked beside him, never letting him out of her sight. Now she waits in the ginnel for us to return from walks. She’s playful again. Her coat shines.”
And Bobby? Beneath the anxiety is a joyful, affectionate little dog who adores his new best friend.
Every morning, Bobby washes Socks before nudging her to wash him back. They nap together, play together, and plot mischief side by side — especially when treats are involved.
While Socks has the “upper paw,” Bobby doesn’t mind one bit.
A second chance for both of them
Rob and Karen never thought they could be lucky enough to find another dog who fit perfectly into their lives. But Bobby has become a cherished part of their family — loving, affectionate, vocal, and full of personality.
He even joins them on camping trips in the Highlands, visiting the same peaceful spots they once enjoyed with Ziggy. He loves the beach — though he misses Socks while he’s away.
Their friendship is, simply, a love story for the ages.
Your support helps create happy endings
Together for Animals helps fund life-changing work like Bobby and Socks’ story through our member charities, including Blue Cross.
With your support, we can continue helping pets find safety, comfort, and the families they deserve.