An investigation has been launched after an emaciated dog was abandoned outside a York pub.
The tan and white Staffy-type dog was handed into the RSPCA’s York animal centre in Landing Lane on Thursday 5 March by a member of the public who said he had found her outside The Dormouse pub in Clifton Park Avenue earlier that morning.
Staff at the centre were shocked by her appearance and she was immediately seen by a vet.
A scan for a microchip revealed she was called Bella, but her registered owner’s details were out of date.
Bella, described by the RSPCA as “emaciated”, also suffered from sore and ulcerated ears.
She was covered in a number of suspicious wounds that may have been caused by dog fighting.
The six-year-old dog was given antibiotics and is currently doing well in the care of staff at the animal centre, putting on weight and gaining strength.
Ruth McCabe, centre manager, said: “When Bella was first brought into us we were truly shocked at how emaciated she was. The fact she could even stand up, let alone walk, was unbelievable.
“At first she was asleep most of the time snuggled under her blankets, only waking for feeds and cuddles. It’s been amazing to see the transformation in not just her physical appearance, but in her general wellbeing – all from receiving food, care and veterinary treatment.
“She is much more active and happy now.
“She loves spending time walking and sniffing as we slowly increase her exercise. She gets so excited when she sees us, her tail never stops wagging. She is such a sweet loving girl.”
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Lucy Featherstone is investigating the incident and has been back to the area where Bella was found to make enquiries and check CCTV with local businesses.
She said: “Bella was painfully thin and had several nasty looking wounds on her body and head that needed treatment.
“She’s a lovely natured dog and we’ve very keen to find out how and why she came to be in this condition and we’d appeal to people with first-hand knowledge about this incident to get in touch with us.”
The RSPCA’s York, Harrogate & District Branch, which is a separate, self-funding charity, is meeting the cost of Bella’s treatment and ongoing care. If you would like to make a donation to help her you can do so via their website.
Anyone with information about Bella is urged to contact the RSPCA, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01748572.
