RSPCA appeal for information after having to euthanise seven-year-old dog found in horrific condition
The RSPCA and Dogs Trust are appealing for information after two dogs were found abandoned and in an emaciated state.
The dogs were found in a bush by a woman while on a school run in Moorside, Oldham, on Friday, March 7.
The pair were then taken into the Dogs Trust Manchester rehoming centre in Denton where they were examined by on site vets.
Onsite vets immediately examined them and found that one, a Maltese/Shih Tzu cross, was microchipped and called Bailey.
Bailey, who is seven-years-old, weighed just 2.75 kg and had almost no body fat and prominent shoulder blades, ribs and spine.
There was significant crusting and staining around his face and his entire body was severely matted and covered in urine and clumps of faeces. His pupils were fixed and he was sadly unresponsive.
Sadly, the decision was then taken to euthanise Bailey due to his condition and to end any further suffering.
The other dog - a one-year-old Maltese that has been named Tiny Tim, had an unkempt coat and matting around his face and weighed 2.5 kg and was given a body condition score of one out of nine.
His hips, back and spine bones were also all visible from a distance but he was not microchipped.
He is now being cared for by a fosterer from Dogs Trust and is slowly gaining weight.
RSPCA Inspector Rachel Whalley, who is leading the investigation said: “These little dogs had been abandoned in a dreadful state weighing just a few pounds each.
"Bailey was lying in a foetal position and was barely responsive when he arrived at the centre.
"The vets immediately did everything they could but he was in such a severe state he had to be put to sleep to end his suffering.”
She added: "Tiny Tim is making progress and at this stage we’re cautiously optimistic about his recovery.
"Even though the dogs were found in Oldham we believe they may have lived in the Rochdale area and people from there might recognise them.
“This incident has greatly upset staff at both charities and we’d appeal to anyone who thinks they can assist this investigation in any way to get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01463390.
The woman who handed the dogs into the Denton rehoming centre is also being urged to get in touch with the RSPCA.