RSPCA appeal after dog found staggering down road in Blackburn

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog was found staggering down the middle of the road in Blackburn, Lancashire.

The female German Shepherd type was emaciated with matted fur and covered in faeces. A member of the public who was driving spotted her on Pleckgate Road just before midnight on Thursday 30 January, moments before she collapsed.

They put her in their car, before flagging a passing police officer down who took the dog to an emergency vets.

RSPCA inspector Demi Hodby said: “This poor dog was in a shocking state. She was unable to stand when she got to the vets and put straight on a drip. She was covered in faeces, so it looks like she was probably confined in her own filth for some time before she was found.

“She had a slip around her neck which looked like it didn’t belong to her, so I think someone may have attempted to catch her previously.”

The dog – who has been named Willow – was transferred to RSPCA Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for several days of hospitalisation before being moved to an RSPCA Animal Centre.

Sadly, her condition has deteriorated, and she has been moved back to Greater Manchester Animal Hospital.

She is described as around four years old and was microchipped as a puppy. But unfortunately, investigations haven’t led us to her current owner.

Demi said: “I’m appealing for anyone who recognises her and has any specific information about who she was living with to get in touch with me. This dog was in a really bad way. She was very lucky to have been spotted and picked up when she was but clearly, she is not out of the woods yet and I’m keeping everything crossed that she’ll be ok.

“If you know who owned her please call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for me.”