Sandra WhatmoughA once “terrified” puppy found abandoned and emaciated in one of the worst cases the RSPCA had seen is now enjoying life in a new home for Christmas.
The Cane Corso, a type of mastiff, was found running loose with a severe skin condition on the Rochdale Canal near Chadderton Hall Park in Oldham, Greater Manchester, in January.
A dog warden was contacted and the pet was taken to Manchester and Cheshire Dogs Home, where staff named her Perla, before she was treated and moved to an RSPCA branch in Southport.
Her new owner Sandra Hallows, of Warrington, Cheshire, spotted her on the charity’s website and said it was “love at first sight”.
Ms Hallows told how she had previously adopted Nova, a Staffordshire Bull Terrior crossed with a Cane Corso two-and-a-half years ago.
“We really liked her temperament so we decided to look for another dog to join her,” she said.
“We like big dogs, and we have always had rescue dogs, so when we saw Perla on the rehoming centre’s website it really was love at first sight.”
RSPCA handoutShe continued: “She’s settled in really well and is so relaxed here.
“Even though she’s a tall dog she’s still a little bit under developed, so we’re making sure she has plenty of TLC, good food and exercise.
“Perla has shown such resilience and has so much love to give.
“I don’t know how anyone could have abandoned her in that state but we feel incredibly lucky to have her.”
RSPCA inspector Jess Pierce said it was “heartbreaking” to see a puppy abandoned in such an appalling condition, which was one of the worst cases she had ever seen.
“When I saw the pictures of how she looks today I couldn’t quite believe it was her at first,” she said.
“I’m so pleased she’s got a lovely new home for Christmas with Sandra and her family, and I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped with Perla’s rescue and recovery.”