Update on neglected Lurcher found in Malvern area
Worcestershire Regulatory Services (WRS) has issued an update on Phoenix, a male Lurcher, whose rescue by the Dog Warden team sparked widespread concern across the region.
The dog was found on Monday 23 March by the roadside around Suckley in the Malvern Hills District Council area.
WRS delivers the Dog Warden service by funding provided by the six district councils in the county.
As the dog was in such a weakened state, the Council sourced a temporary foster placement rather than putting him into kennels. Once the seven-day statutory boarding period ended, Phoenix was passed to a rehoming charity who have maintained the foster placement.
Since going into foster care, alongside regular vet supervision, the dog has managed to gain four and a half kilograms or just over half a stone.
The Lurcher is growing stronger and can now walk and stand on his own, but until the dog has gained more weight, the vet has advised, he cannot receive worm or flea treatment.
Bones are still prominent across his frame, and he always wear a coat due to his response to the cold, but the pressure sores and infected wounds across his skin have healed.
Senior Dog Warden Pip Griffin said: “We are incredibly grateful to Worcestershire residents, and those from the surrounding area, who have shared our appeal for answers on this tragic case.
“Phoenix remains a sweet, angelic dog even in his vulnerable, anaemic condition with urine-stained back legs, which just shows the long-term neglect he has endured."
The Council has received multiple potential leads, and these are being investigated, but the Dog Wardens continue to appeal for information from anyone who believes they know who the owner was that allowed the dog to get into this condition.
Without support from the public to where the dog came from there is no deterrent or punishment for such neglect.
Pip continues: “I remain hopeful that this precious dog will continue to improve, but the road to full recovery is long. We just hope the perpetrator will be brought to justice.”
Residents can contact Worcestershire Regulatory Services at 01905 822799 or enquiries@worcsregservices.gov.uk.
The organisation is grateful to those members of the public who have offered to make donations to the Dog Warden team, but the service is unable to accept these. Instead, WRS encourages individuals to support local dog charities who receive and support neglected or abandoned dogs.