THE COUNTY’s animal welfare officer has issued a warning to those thinking of buying a dog for Christmas after finding a dog between Pershore and Kempsey ‘dumped like a piece of trash’.
Pip Singleton spoke out after discovering Barney with a broken neck, arthritis and rheumatism, starving, dehydrated and weighing a little more than 12kg.
He was in such a bad state the county’s canine carer admitted she thought he may even die in the van she picked him up in.
“He was a walking skeleton – but actually couldn’t even stand-up,” she said.
“I didn’t think he would survive. He had literally been dumped like a piece of trash on the side of the road, covered in poo and flies.
“It remains beyond me how people could treat a living, feeling, loving creature this way, especially when there is help available,” she said.
Aspiring dog owners have been reminded of the responsibility in taking on a four-legged friend such as regular walks, food and the costs of trips to the vets.
Anyone finding it hard to take care of a dog is urged to speak to one of Worcestershire Regulatory Services dog wardens to seek a solution.
“Better still, if you are at work all day, are already strapped for cash and have a busy life, don’t buy a dog in the first place,” she said.
“Barney is now able to feed and drink for himself and has gained five kg, but his suffering will remain with him
forever.”
Call 01905 822799 for help or advice on getting a dog or about your current pet.
