A Chow Chow named Snowball is celebrating a fresh start this Christmas after being rescued from the A52 in a severely matted and dirty condition.
The dog, found running along the busy road, was taken into care and given urgent attention at holding kennels.
Snowball underwent a welfare groom to remove her heavily matted fur, leaving her with a tidier, albeit temporary, look. Rescuers said her coat would grow back beautifully, but the immediate priority was her comfort and health.
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Thanks to the efforts of the holding kennels, Snowball has secured a rescue space in time for the holidays.
Photos shared by her carers show a much happier dog, now on the road to recovery and a brighter future.
Supporters praised the team for their care and dedication. “Massive thank you to the holding kennels for looking after her and finding her a rescue space,” said one rescuer.
Snowball’s story highlights the importance of vigilance for stray animals and the kindness of those who step in to help.
What happened to the dog seen on the A52?
A cream-coloured Chow Chow was found wandering on Stores Road in Derby on December 9 at around 1:00 pm. The adult dog believed to be microchipped but only registered to breeder details, was discovered without a collar, sparking an urgent appeal to locate its owner.
The dog, described as an adult Chow Chow with cream-coloured fur appeared to have been lost or abandoned. Derby City Stray Dogs is now leading the search, urging anyone with information about the dog or its owner to come forward.
The dog’s microchip was traced back to the breeder, but no further ownership details were available, raising questions about its recent care and whereabouts. Rescuers noted the absence of a collar, which would have provided critical information.
Derby rallies after dog spotted running up and down the A52
When a Chow Chow was spotted running dangerously along the A52 last week, Derby residents and passers-by quickly stepped up to help the distressed dog. The Chow Chow, later named Snowball, was seen darting across the busy road near Pentagon Island, narrowly avoiding several vehicles.
Angel Hague, one of the first to respond, described the intense hour-long rescue effort. “We found this dog at 11:30 and didn’t manage to catch him till 12:30. The police had to block off the A52 to help us catch him,” she said. “The poor dog nearly got hit so many times.”
Others expressed gratitude for the rescuers’ quick thinking and bravery. “Well done to the lad that ran up the A52 to catch it,” commented Heather Gill, while Gill Clark added, “Bless him, imagine being out in this awful weather. Must have been scary for him. Thank you to those who rescued him from his plight.”
Concerns about the dog’s origin also emerged, with some suggesting it came from a problematic breeder. Erica Leigh-Ann Smith warned, “Do not take that dog back. They overbreed and have already had animals removed by the RSPCA.” Others urged the breeder to take responsibility, with Irene Peake noting, “The breeder should know who they sold or rehomed the dog to, as microchip details are registered with them.”
In the aftermath, residents shared Snowball’s photo widely, hoping to reunite her with her owner or find her a safe haven. Posts flooded local and national forums, with suggestions to contact rescues and lost dog networks. “Shared in Belper—please share again,” urged Sue Wood.
The Chow Chow’s plight touched hearts across Derby, with many calling her a “beautiful little bear” and hoping for her safety. “She can come and live with me!” offered Louise Richardson. “Surely someone is out there looking for her. I would be going out of my mind.”
Thanks to the community’s efforts, Snowball was eventually secured by Derby City Stray Dogs and placed into care, marking the beginning of her journey to a better life.
Derby residents praise Snowball’s rescue and wish her a loving home
The rescue of Snowball, a Chow Chow found in distress on the A52, has drawn an outpouring of support and warm wishes from Derby residents. Locals have praised the work of rescue centres and holding kennels for ensuring her safety and well-being.
Many expressed relief at Snowball’s transformation, with comments celebrating her improved appearance and happiness. “Oh, she looks beautiful and happier, bless her,” said one resident, while another added, “How happy does she look now!”
Several residents shared heartfelt hopes that Snowball will find a forever home. “I seriously hope she finds a forever home that will love her and cherish her,” one commenter wrote, while another remarked, “Absolutely fantastic news, hope she finally gets a loving home very soon!”
Others admired her resilience and beauty. “She’s gorgeous,” said one local, with another noting, “She’s such a beautiful dog. I hope she finds a home that meets her needs.”
Gratitude was also extended to the team behind her rescue. “Thank you so much for the valuable work you do,” one person wrote. “You guys are awesome.” Another resident urged Derby City Stray Dogs to continue sharing success stories, saying, “Love follow-up stories—please do them when you can!”
Snowball’s journey has touched the hearts of many in Derby, with the community rooting for her to find a loving, permanent home in time for the holidays.