Bid to find owner of this dog found wandering streets

AN investigation has been launched by the RSPCA after a severely underweight dog with sores was found wandering the streets of Coventry.

Now named Bilbo, the Pointer-cross was spotted by a member of the public in Bell Green Road at the end of September.

He weighed just 23kg when he should have weighed around 35kg, had no muscle mass and was riddled with fleas.

He had also lost some of his hair and had yellow patches on his feet, suggesting he had been laid down or stood in his own urine for some time.

RSPCA inspectors are now searching for the pooch’s owner, who they believe dumped him on the streets.

Bilbo, who is believed to be around three years old, was picked up by the dog warden and taken for treatment at Medivets in Bell Green.

Vets there said it was one of the worst cases of neglect they have ever seen, and called in the RSPCA.

A spokesman for the vets said: “Bilbo was one of the worst cases we’ve seen in a very long time as he was so underweight and we assume the urine burns and the sores on his body are from being kept inside a kennel for a long time inside someone’s house.

“He had a few old scars on his legs and was riddled with fleas.

“But despite all this he is a very lovely and sweet dog, he gets on amazingly with his fosterers’ other dog too so we are pleased he seems happy now.”

Fortunately, Bilbo is now being fostered by a couple, who gave him his new name, and he is doing well in their care.

RSPCA investigation Ben Jones, an RSPCA Animal Welfare Officer (AWO), is now investigating and is keen to trace the previous owner of Bilbo, who hasn’t been micropchipped.

Ben said: “This dog was in a really poor state and was found wandering around so we are assuming he has been neglected for sometime.

“Then it seems someone has decided to abandon him on the streets which must have been terrifying for him.

“I am pleased a member of the public spotted the dog and by reporting the matter he was able to get the help he needed to recover from his ordeal.

“But I am keen to trace the previous owner and as he is such a distinctive looking dog I am hoping someone may recognise him and be able to help.”

Bilbo was found on Tuesday, September 24.

Anyone with any information should contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.