A dog on the brink of death, described as a “walking skeleton,” has been given a second chance at life and now lives the happiest of lives in a cozy new home in the UK.
On April 20, 2023, police officers Malloy, Gillott, and Goodwin from the South Yorkshire Police found the dog, now named Luca, tied to a lamppost, frozen in the cold winds.
According to a press release from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), Officer Mark Winter from Barnsley stated that urgent action was needed to save the abandoned dog’s life.
Luca was rushed to a veterinarian and received steroids, antibiotics, and pain relief treatment. After initial care, this scared little dog, who had lost 98% of its fur due to skin disease, was brought back to the police station.
Officer Winter revealed, “I brought my own dog’s fluffy bed, a warm blanket, and dog food to the office. The eyes of this frightened little dog seemed to tell the story of a life of neglect and cruelty. When I placed it on the bed and wrapped it up, it curled up and almost smiled. It clearly had never experienced such comfort before.”
Officer Winter stayed with Luca until RSPCA Inspector Ben Cottle-Shaw arrived to take it away. Officer Winter said, “I will never forget the look Luca gave me when we handed it over to the RSPCA, as if to say thank you.”
Cottle-Shaw stated that Luca was the “skinniest dog” he had encountered in his 16-year career. He said, “I could sense from Luca’s behavior and eyes that it had given up on life, as it was so broken and isolated. Seeing this scene almost broke my heart.”
Fortunately, Luca’s life soon took a turn for the better.
Cottle-Shaw mentioned, “I quickly took it for veterinary treatment, and I was even worried that it might not survive the short trip for emergency care. Luca not only suffered from starvation but also had a severe case of sarcoptic mange, yet it was friendly to the veterinary staff.”
Due to Luca’s untreated skin condition, it constantly scratched, nearly losing all its fur. The vet also discovered a fractured tailbone and unbandaged wounds on Luca.
After weeks of recovery treatment, Luca’s skin improved, and its weight increased significantly. Shortly after, a kind-hearted elderly couple, David and Gillian Hagan, adopted Luca.
Mr. Hagan shared, “We saw the RSPCA looking for a home for Luca. It looked very cute, and we couldn’t wait to meet Luca. The photos of Luca when found were heartbreaking. Luca now has a beautiful shiny coat, and its weight has increased.”
Today, Luca’s life has undergone a complete transformation. It enjoys running and spending time with the Hagan couple and their granddaughter, Freya Blenkiron. Luca is now immersed in the love of its new family.
Officer Winter is delighted to hear about Luca’s happy ending. He said, “Luca will always hold a special place in our hearts and in the office. Its picture hangs on our wall, looking healthy and happy now.”
As Luca’s previous owner remains unknown, the RSPCA hopes that anyone with information can provide details regarding the abuse and abandonment of Luca’s former owner.