Mittagong resident Jayne Power welcomed nine-year-old Dolly into her home six months ago, and she has watched her change dramatically.

Dolly is one of 22 dogs retired from a research company and given a second chance at life. While the dogs have always been well-cared for, they have never had a home with a family or a constant companion.

When Jayne lost her old cattle dog, Jess, she didn't think she could ever get another pet.

Two months later she realised she couldn't live without a four-legged-friend, so she called her vet and said she would like an older dog, preferably a rescue dog.

He referred her to assistant manager of Kelston Country Kennels Emma Paloff which is overseeing the rehoming of the 22 dogs, waiting for their permanent homes.

When Jayne first met Dolly, the dog was timid, but excited to see her.

Jayne and her husband Richard visited a few times, taking Dolly for walks and spending time with her.

It wasn't long before they decided Dolly was the right dog for them.

"We put a lot of time into her, she was a cute little titch," Jayne said.

"She settled in well, she's taken to the house like she owns it, she loves having a home of her own."

Jayne said Dolly was incredibly affectionate and enjoyed going to work her with everyday.

"The affection you give her, she returns it ten-fold, she just has so much love to give."

Jayne said there had been a few hurdles with Dolly because she had lacked the exposure to everyday things, but nothing major.

"The first time we turned on the TV she hid, she must never have seen one before. She was a bit anxious in the beginning, but we've watched her transform into a comfortable dog and develop trust as she identified her new home and surroundings," Jayne said

"It took about a week for her to get used to getting in the car, but now she jumps in to come to work with me, and when we get home she bounds up to the front door then runs back to me and rolls over for a belly rub.

"I just couldn't imagine life without her." Emma keeps in regular contact with Jayne and said she was really happy that Dolly had found her perfect match.

"It's just the most fulfilling thing seeing these dogs move into loving homes," Emma said. I had my doubts about their ability to adapt but it proves that with enough love, anything is possible".

"Eleven have already gone to wonderful local homes and I'd like to see the remaining 11 all settled into loving homes as soon as possible."

Emma has the job of matching these dogs up with the right owner and would be interested in hearing from anyone who might be considering a new dog.

"They're all extremely affectionate, but each have their own unique personality and needs. Apart from love they also need good fencing, plenty of company and committed people like Jayne who are happy to put in the effort in order to help them make the transition into the domestic environment."

With 11 happy endings so far, another 11 dogs are still patiently waiting. Two of those are brother and sister team - Lily and Boof.

"These two beagle crosses are just so lovely? they would adapt very easily to living the good life somewhere in the Southern Highlands. There must be someone out there with a vacancy in their life for these two very deserving, totally lovable dogs."

Seven of the dogs are four years old and four of them are nine, they are all medium sized crossbreeds.

She said all the dogs were particularly healthy and had always had an excellent diet and regular heath checks. They come desexed, vaccinated, wormed and microchiped.

Contact Emma Paloff on 0422 774 274 or visit www.facebook.com/SeniorDogAdoptions for more information.