RSPCA appeal after emaciated dog abandoned in Scunthorpe woodland

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a suffering dog was left abandoned in woodland in Scunthorpe.

The dog was discovered last week (Wednesday, March 18) in Atkinsons Warren, a large area of woodland in North-West Scunthorpe, at around 5pm.

He was found by a dog walker after their pet strayed from the path to a secluded area.

The blue/grey Staffordshire Bull Terrier, named Butch, was emaciated and had been left tied to a tree. His back legs were collapsing.

The person who found him rushed him to a local vet, where the RSPCA was called to investigate.

RSPCA inspector Dan Bradshaw said: “It’s shocking that somebody would deliberately abandon a dog clearly in poor health in an area so secluded there was a good chance he might not have been found.

“Butch was totally emaciated; he’s one of the thinnest dogs I have ever seen and his back legs were giving way because he was so skinny.

“When the vet examined Butch they found he was actually microchipped, which revealed he is 12 years old.

“Shockingly, it also showed that when he was first registered as a puppy, Butch weighed 25kg, however, as an adult dog in his current condition, he weighs just 15.5kg, which shows just how underweight he is.

“The vet believes there is no reason for this other than a lack of adequate nutrition.

“Butch is very lucky that the dog walker came across him; he may not have survived much longer.”

Dan added: “Despite all of this, Butch is so friendly and loving, and I’m very pleased to say he’s now in the care of one of our private boarding kennels, where he has a comfy warm bed to rest in and he’ll be fed gradually to build him back up to strength.

“They say he’s already doing much better.

“I’m really keen to find out where Butch came from and who owns him.

“Anyone with information can contact me in complete confidence on our inspector appeal line number by calling 0300 123 8018.”

The RSPCA is providing an emergency-only service to animals through the coronavirus crisis in the wake of Government advice.

Anyone who wants to help the RSPCA continue helping animals in emergency need of care, can make a donation through their website, by mobile, or call the donation line on 0300 123 8181.

Alternatively, you can:

• find your local branch, centre or hospital and donate an item from their Amazon wish list

• sign up as a volunteer

• support one of their campaigns

• sign up for one of their exciting challenges later this year

Many owners are concerned about caring for their pets amid the Coronavirus outbreak.

Lots of advice and help is available on the RSPCA website: www.rspca.org.uk