Appeal after rescue dog found with suspected deliberate injuries
RSPCA and Woodgreen are appealing for information after Peanut was found with suspected non-accidental injuries beneath severely matted fur.
Peanut, a Shih Tzu Lhasa Apso-cross believed to be almost two years old, was found straying in Ross Street, Cambridge, on 2 July before being taken by a member of the public to Woodgreen Pets Charity.
On arrival, Peanut’s condition immediately raised concerns. His coat was so severely matted that one of his ears had become attached to his neck by dense knots of fur, preventing him from turning his head properly.
As Woodgreen’s veterinary team safely clipped and removed the layers of matted fur, they discovered concealed beneath his coat a series of vertical wounds running along his body from his back to his belly.
Although the injuries were healing, the pattern and nature of the wounds led the veterinary team to suspect they had been deliberately inflicted.
Following treatment, Woodgreen carried out extensive enquiries, including scanning Peanut’s microchip, investigating his previous ownership history and sharing information with the RSPCA, which has now launched an investigation.
Emma Lyons, Veterinary Surgeon at Woodgreen Pets Charity, said: “Peanut’s condition was one of the worst cases of matting we’ve seen. His fur had become so overgrown and tightly knotted that one of his ears was effectively attached to his neck, severely restricting his movement and undoubtedly causing him significant discomfort.
“Once we removed the matted coat, we discovered several unusual wounds along one side of his body. While we cannot say with certainty how they were caused, their appearance is highly concerning and not something we would typically expect to see as the result of an accident. Our priority was to relieve Peanut’s pain, begin treatment and ensure he received the care he so desperately needed.”
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Maya Thakrar, who is investigating the circumstances surrounding Peanut’s injuries, said: “The injuries found on Peanut are extremely unusual. Although they were already healing by the time he arrived at Woodgreen, they would have caused him considerable pain.
“We are working to establish exactly what happened to Peanut and are particularly keen to speak to anyone who recognises him or knows who cared for him before he was found. Even the smallest piece of information could prove vital to our investigation.”
Microchip enquiries suggest Peanut was rehomed approximately six months ago, and the RSPCA is keen to trace the person who took ownership of him at that time.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line in confidence on 0300 123 8018, quoting incident 01843785.
Despite everything he has endured, Peanut has made remarkable progress during his time at Woodgreen. His injuries are healing well and, as his confidence has grown, his playful and cheeky personality has begun to shine through. Peanut has also found the loving new home he deserves.
Martina Cohen, Dogs Team Leader at Woodgreen Pets Charity said: ” Peanut’s resilience has amazed everyone who has cared for him. Our team feels lucky to have had the chance to watch him grow in confidence during his time with us, and his cheeky personality and zest for life is shining through more and more each day. It’s heartbreaking to think about what he’s been through, but thanks to the dedication of our veterinary and care teams, he now has the chance of a happy future in a loving new home.”
Anyone wishing to support Woodgreen’s work caring for vulnerable pets like Peanut can donate here.
The RSPCA’s investigation comes during the charity’s Cruelty Hurts. Love Rescues. summer campaign, launched as reports of animal cruelty continue to rise during the busiest months of the year. Last summer alone, the RSPCA received more than 6,300 reports of animal cruelty during June, July and August – the equivalent of one call every ten minutes while its emergency line was open.
