16-year-old Thor adopted following Rome's dog adoption campaign.

Life begins again for Thor, a 16-year-old dog, who was adopted after spending the last 11 years housed in kennels in the Muratella suburb of Rome.

Thor's lucky break came following a pre-Christmas video campaign by the city, entitled #apriilcancello (open the gate), to raise awareness about the life of Muratella's dogs who long to be part of a family.

Designed to pull at the heartstrings, the campaign featured 10 stories told through the eyes of 10 dogs, including Thor.

"I've heard people talk about the sea many times," Thor says, "and I've always dreamed of going but, at this stage, I don't think I'll ever see it."

For more information about the work of the volunteers at Muratella kennels, including how to adopt a dog, see Canili di Roma website.

Photo La Stampa