Last year, an appeal for help came into our group from the RSPCA, for a dog that had been sighted, severely matted in a location in the North East of England.

After numerous attempts to contain him, it was clear that he wasn’t going to be hand caught as he was extremely wary of humans. A humane trap was immediately set up, filled with delicious home cooked chicken and bacon.

He circled the trap a few times, he could clearly smell the food but couldn’t see it due to the matts over his eyes. He eventually found the entrance to the trap and was safely and securely caught.

After ensuring that the dog was calm and relaxed, a team member entered the trap, speaking gently to him whilst moving the matts away from his eyes. She saw the saddest eyes she had seen. The dog realising that this human was no threat and wasn’t going to hurt him, actually laid his head on her knees. A few tears were shed by team members at this point.

He went immediately to the vets, was sedated and 3.5kg of matted fur and dried excrement was removed, revealing a deep wound which was cleaned and stitched.

The RSPCA began an investigation to try and locate the owner to discover why he was straying in an isolated location, in an extremely poor condition. The RSPCA’s investigation produced no answers so Marley was signed over to the care of our team.

He completed his follow up vet treatment and was vaccinated and neutered.

From an abandoned dog dumped in a horrendous state, he’s now the most loving and affectionate dog. He will soon be departing for his new 5* forever home where he will continue to give and receive care and love.