The heart-wrenching scene of the weak and underweight lurcher callously dumped in the countryside has shocked animal rescuers. It is likely the young black and tan dog had been abandoned because he was too sick to carry on chasing quarry. Luckily, the dog, who has now been nicknamed Toby, was found by an RSPCA volunteer who raised the alarm so he could be rushed to the vets.
RSPCA official Clive Vallis described the pitiful scene when he arrived to save two or three year Toby who had been left in West Hanningfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex, earlier this month.
Mr Vallis, chairman of the RSPCA Essex Mid, Brentwood, Chelmsford and District branch, explained: “When I went to collect Toby, he was scared, but seemed grateful to have been rescued. He was extremely poorly and when I scooped him up he didn’t resist. I took him straight to our clinic to be examined by a vet.
“Sadly, our vet has found that Toby is very poorly and has an enlarged pancreas which is causing him a number of health complications. But we are determined to do all we can to help him. After everything he has been through, he truly deserves a second chance.
“We think he has probably been used for hare-coursing as his little body was covered in scratch marks, which could indicate him having to run across fields and brambles, and this breed is one we see used quite frequently with this illegal activity.”
Today the RSPCA is appealing for help in funding Toby’s recovery.
Mr Vallis added: “Toby’s road to recovery could be a long one, and we are concerned about his health and illness, but we will do all we can to help him.
“We would be extremely grateful if anyone is able to make a donation towards Toby’s on-going veterinary care. We just want to get him well and find him a loving new home.”
As Toby, who was not microchipped, continues to receive treatment, the RSPCA is carrying out and investigation into his abandonment.
Pictures of the pieces of twine used to tie Toby to the off road horse riding track signpost are being circulated to help trace the person who left him.
RSPCA Inspector Jess Dayes, who is leading the investigation into the incident, said: “It is heartbreaking to hear what has happened to Toby, and we are so grateful to the RSPCA branch for taking him in and providing him with the much needed love and veterinary attention he requires.
“Toby was discovered at the location at around 3pm on February 13, so there must be someone who may have seen him being left or who recognises him.
“I would be keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed this or may know who was responsible. Any information will be treated in confidence.”
Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
Animal lovers who would like to support the branch in their care for Toby can contact the branch on 01245 478886 or email [email protected]