Outraged animal lovers bombarded websites demanding tough action against the owner of a neglected dog said to have been tied up and abandoned under a Spalding bridge.
Police have this week issued a warning against such ‘naming and shaming’ calls. And it has also emerged that the 18-month-old bitch – named Star by those now looking after her – had not been dumped beside the Coronation Channel.
The case set the internet buzzing. On Tuesday the original Facebook post by South Holland District Council’s dog warden had been viewed an astonishing 31,000 times.
The post quickly attracted more than 200 comments, with many people calling for the owner to be quickly rooted out and face punishment.
It led to a name being published on a website. The Voice understands that someone claiming to be that person then contacted the dog warden and admitted Star was theirs.
Further investigations revealed that someone who had heard about Star’s poor condition had removed her from the owner’s premises. The dog was showing a lack of basic needs and lapped up seven bowls of water.
The Mastiff cross is being nursed to better health at Jerry Green Dog Rescue in Algarkirk, putting on 4kgs in weight in a week.
Centre manager Jo Hickson said: “She’s doing very well and has the appetite of a horse.
“She’s eating and drinking well, has gained strength in her back and is generally looking a lot better.”
Jerry Green Dog Rescue will keep Star until she is fully fit and ready to be rehomed. Anyone interested in registering their details should call 01205 260546.
The RSPCA is looking into the case. Anyone with information is asked to call 0300 123 0290.
