Appeal to help tiny puppy found dumped in a bin in Cheltenham
A tiny puppy is being cared for by staff at a Cotswold rescue centre after being found in a rubbish bin in Cheltenham by a concerned passer-by. Eight-week-old cocker spaniel, Winnie, had been dumped in the bin outside the Dunelm store on Tewkesbury Road and brought to the Cotswold Cats & Dogs Home via a vet’s visit.
One of poor little Winnie’s front legs is fused at the elbow, meaning she is unable to walk on it and centre staff believe this could be the reason she was dumped.
Winnie is being cared for at the home based at Cambridge, near Dursley, by senior animal care assistant Ebony Poole, who said she fell in love with the cute little fur baby as soon as she saw her.
“When she came in, her leg was noticeably twisted. I instantly fell in love with her and knew I wanted to offer her a loving foster home to support her through her treatment,” she said.
“It’s likely the previous owner couldn’t afford her care so decided to abandon her when she needed help. The RSPCA is currently appealing for any information.”
Vets diagnosed the problem as a congenital elbow dislocation with fusion, meaning unfortunately Winnie will need to have the damaged leg removed, although they are confident she will be able to learn to get around on the three remaining legs and lead a happy and fulfilled life.
She has also suffered two seizures, which are also being investigated by vets, and Ebony said: “She is my biggest concern at the moment and I’m hopeful that the public will help us care for Winnie and erase the neglect she has already suffered at the tender age of eight weeks.
‘She is such a fun-loving girl. She loves her playtime and will curl up on my lap for a good nap afterward. She doesn’t realise how loved she is.”