(Image: RSPCA Cymru)
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A lurcher cross has been rescued after being found close to death in the backyard of an empty property in Merthyr Tydfil – and the RSPCA is now trying to trace whoever was responsible for his care.
The discovery
The brindle-coloured male dog was discovered at a property in Ash Crescent on February 24 after a concerned member of the public raised the alarm. The person who contacted the charity had resorted to throwing food into the yard, believing the animal was dying.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Andrew Harris attended and found the lurcher chained to a shed covered in faeces. The dog was so severely emaciated that his spine and ribs were clearly visible, and he was unable to stay on his feet. He was also suffering from a wound to one of his back feet.
Emergency treatment
The dog was rushed to a veterinary practice in Bridgend for urgent care, where he was put on fluids and antibiotics. Police were also called to the property and the animal was seized into the RSPCA’s care. He was not microchipped, and despite the charity’s efforts to make contact with whoever owned him, nobody has come forward.
Recovery and new home
Over the weeks that followed, the lurcher – now named Reggie – made a remarkable recovery. He has since been rehomed with one of the veterinary nurses who helped care for him during his treatment.
The appeal
RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Gemma Cooper, who is leading the investigation, said: “This poor dog was found in absolutely horrendous conditions in the backyard of this property. Had he not been rescued at the time it is unlikely that he would have survived as it is likely he had been left like this for several months. He had been starved to the point that he was falling over when our officer attended – he was so emaciated that he was collapsing.
“There were two kennels in the back of the property that were covered in faeces and the member of the public who contacted us had been trying to throw food into the yard as they thought the dog was dying.
“Thankfully, Reggie has made a full recovery and has found a loving new home. He’s a very sweet boy who is doing so well now with a caring owner after such a terrible ordeal.
“We’d like to find out who owned him and how he came to be treated like this. Anyone with any information is asked to come forward in confidence. They can contact the RSPCA on 0300 1238018 and quote reference number 01737766.”
