A FRIGHTENED, skinny dog was rescued by the RSPCA after being found huddled in ivy amongst trees in Teesside.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Ruth Thomas-Coxon was called to an overgrown area of undergrowth off Busby Lane, Middlesbrough, on October 18 after passersby spotted the abandoned dog curled up amongst the ivy.

Ruth said: “The tan-coloured lurcher was quite weak and skinny, and extremely frightened. When I saw him there curled up surrounded by ivy it was a pitiful sight.

“Thankfully the dog was microchipped and I managed to trace his previous owners who confirmed that they’d sold him on three weeks previously and had no idea he’d been abandoned. They signed him over into our care and we took him in.”

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Bang Bang - as he’s called - is now being cared for by staff at the RSPCA’s Great Ayton Animal Centre nearby. He had a swollen back leg so needed veterinary attention and staff set about treating his wounds and putting weight back on.

Ruth said: “It’s not clear how long poor Bang Bang had been fending for himself but it appears that whoever took him on from his previous owners have cast him out fairly quickly and he’s ended up in poor condition. It’s heartbreaking to think of him out there on his own as the weather’s been deteriorating. I’m so pleased he’s safe now, getting the care he needs and can soon start his search for a loving new home.”

Great Ayton Animal Centre deputy manager Olivia Duffill said: “Bang Bang is doing really well and his leg is improving every day. He has started to bear weight on the leg so that’s great news.

“He is such a beautiful, lovely-natured dog and he absolutely loves cuddles and spending time with our staff. Animal care assistant Ryan Cann has been working closely with him and they’ve got a really lovely bond.

The Northern Echo:

“Once Bang Bang has recovered from his leg injury and has been fully assessed we’ll start looking for a loving new home for him and I don’t think it’ll take us long. He’s such a fabulous dog and he’ll make a wonderful addition to the right family.”

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