Dog in 'worst case of neglect' dumped outside vets

A tiny dog was dumped outside a closed vets surgery after suffering what an animal rescue volunteer said had been "the worst case of neglect" she had ever seen.

Nelly the shih tzu was found with completely matted fur and a leg injury, wrapped in an old coat under a pile of leaves.

She was taken to Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary in Melling.

Dog groomer Netty Davis, who was called in to help the animal, said she "cried all the way to the rescue centre".

Davis said: "When I saw her I just couldn't believe it. I picked her up and kissed her [but] I wish I hadn't because it was the worst smell I have ever known."

She added: "I had taken food and a blanket with me and when I picked her up she just snuggled into me."

"The dog was in a terrible state - I have never seen such matted fur. She had a terrible wound in her front right leg covered with matted fur."

Sanctuary founder Steph Taylor said: "This is the worst case of neglect I have ever seen and I have been involved with animals since I was 13."

The dog was taken to a vet where it had an operation and medication and a much-needed haircut.

"We have a black bin bag full of her fur - it weighs about a kilo (2lbs) and she is only 5kg (11lbs).

"I'm looking after her until she is well where hopefully we can get her to a foster home and then a full-time owner," Taylor added.

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