Derry woman who suffered mental health crisis relieved as pets found in Cork

A Derry woman who was separated from her two dogs after suffering a mental health crisis last year has been told they have been found safe and well.

Last December, she had travelled to Cork with her Jack Russel Terriers Bella and Mia while struggling with a period of psychosis.

Speaking to Cork’s Red FM as part of an appeal, her daughters Niamh and Leah Boyd explained their mother had been sleeping rough in Cork and tried to keep the dogs warm under her coat.

Realising that they were in poor health, she gave them away to a passerby outside Kent Station in the hopes they would be properly looked after.

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While the Boyd family managed to reconnect with their mother within days, they were distraught at the loss of the dogs.

After the radio appeal, a business owner in Cork confirmed that his elderly brother had “the perfect home for them,” and that they have remained with him happily over the last year.

The Boyd family were later informed on air the dogs were being properly cared for, with Leah able to share the good news with her mother.

Although it remains unclear if the dogs will remain in Cork or come back to Derry, the family said they were in touch with their new guardian and thankful for his help.