From tragedy to triumph: dumped puppies named after golf stars now ready to be rehomed

A heart-breaking discovery in Broughshane last month has turned into a hopeful tale, as a litter of underweight puppies—found tied in a bag and abandoned—has been lovingly nursed back to full health by Dogs Trust Ballymena.

The six crossbreed pups were discovered at a popular dog-walking area, stuffed inside a tied plastic bag. One puppy had managed to escape and was spotted by a passer-by, who quickly alerted the rehoming centre.

Staff at Dogs Trust Ballymena rushed to the scene and rescued the five remaining pups. All six—believed to be Collie crosses—were around 10 weeks old and in poor condition, underweight and clearly neglected.

Following several weeks of dedicated care, the puppies have made a remarkable recovery. One has already been adopted, and the remaining five are now ready to find their forever homes.

In a nod to The Open, which takes place this week in Portrush, the puppies have been named after world-class golfers competing in the tournament: Rory (McIlroy), Padraig (Harrington), Shane (Lowry), Tom (McKibbin), and Justin (Rose).

“It is truly shocking that these beautiful boys were discarded in a bag like rubbish,” said Sarah Park, Assistant Manager at Dogs Trust Ballymena.

“Thank goodness they were found when they were, or the outcome could have been very different. They are now a healthy weight and sweet, playful puppies that are increasing in confidence every day.

“With golf fever hitting Northern Ireland this week with The Open in Portrush, we thought it would be lovely to give them inspiring names as we know they will go on to achieve great things in life.

“Rory, Padraig, Shane, Tom and Justin have bright futures ahead and we can’t wait to celebrate their Claret Jug-winning moment when they find their forever homes.”

The puppies are described as affectionate and energetic, and Dogs Trust Ballymena is now looking for loving families ready to support them as they continue to grow and learn. They would suit homes with enclosed gardens, where they can enjoy outdoor play and housetraining, and could live alongside children or other pets.

To see all dogs available for adoption at Dogs Trust Ballymena or to express interest in rehoming one of the golf-star pups, visit:

www.dogstrust.org.uk/ballymena