The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
The neglected dog, named Willie by rescue centre staff
Information from the public is wanted on one of the worst cases of neglect that a dog rescue centre manager has seen.
The RSPCA wants to hear from anyone who knows about a shih-tsu cross which was found in such poor condition that it had to be put down.
The male, thought to be around seven years old, was discovered collapsed on his side in the Washway Road area of Holbeach on March 9. He was extremely emaciated, with an infected mouth and a popped ulcerated eye.
It was in such an extreme state of neglect it is believed he had probably been unable to move for at least a month.
A passing member of the public found him and took him to the Jerry Green Dog Rescue in Algarkirk.
Centre manager Joanne Hickson said: “In the 16 years I have been at this centre this is one of the worst cases of severe neglect I have ever seen.
“His fur was completely matted on one side and it was clear he had been collapsed like this for some time – the vet thinks at least a month.
“It was just horrible to see this poor animal in this state – a sight that will stay with me for quite some time.
“Whilst cases like this are few and far between, we would always urge members of the public to contact us immediately if they cannot meet their dogs’ needs, rather than allowing them to get into such a poor state.”
A spokesman for the RSPCA told The Voice: “Unfortunately no one has come forward yet so currently we are no further forward with the investigation at this point.
“We would, however, urge anyone with information about the case to contact our inspector line on 0300 123 8018.”
