A 10-year-old dog that spent nine years of his life waiting to be adopted will spend Christmas in his new home.

Bubba, a Terrier Cross, arrived at Dog's Trust Snetterton in January 2014 and stayed long enough to become the centre's longest-residing pooch.

His struggles with anxiety and dislike of strangers were holding him back from finding his forever family so the Dogs Trust team did everything they could to build his confidence. 

North Norfolk News: Geoff Olds felt an instant bond with Bubba upon their first meetingGeoff Olds felt an instant bond with Bubba upon their first meeting (Image: Dogs Trust)

When Geoff Olds met Bubba earlier this year he felt an instant connection and was determined to take him home.

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Kelly Smith, Dogs Trust Snetterton's rehoming centre manager, said:  "Bubba's journey is a testament to the love and patience of Geoff and the team at Dogs Trust Snetterton.

North Norfolk News: Bubba has overcome his anxieties and has settled into his home wellBubba has overcome his anxieties and has settled into his home well (Image: Dogs Trust)

"Overcoming his initial anxieties, he has blossomed into a happy and confident dog and we are so delighted to see Bubba thriving.

"We are so pleased that he will be spending his first Christmas in his forever home." 

Mr Olds said: "Bubba is so lively and full of fun, seeming really happy and loving being with me.

"He follows me everywhere.

"I had to make a dozen visits to familiarise myself with him as he is not keen on strangers, but he has taken to living in a home perfectly - as if it is what he always wanted."