Two neglected dogs who were being looked after by the RSPCA Preston and District Branch are looking forward to a happy Christmas in loving new homes.

Rottweiler Bella and Harry, a husky-type dog, were rescued after being found living amongst piles of rubbish and animal faeces. They were both severely underweight when they were removed from the filthy and hazardous living conditions.

Bella’s hips and ribs were visibly protruding and she had overgrown nails, scabby ears and sticky eyes. Harry was also in thin bodily condition with feet that were tinged with urine stains.

Both dogs had been living amongst rubbish and there was an overpowering smell of ammonia when RSPCA officers entered the house. 

The pair spent months being cared for at the RSPCA’s Preston & District Branch rehoming centre in Ribbleton, both of them making a full recovery before being adopted by new families in the summer.

Bella’s new owner Jordan said “it feels like we’ve struck gold”.

Jordan continued: “She’s been through so much and we feel privileged to have been able to give her a new home. She’s just the happiest dog with a constantly wagging tail and she’s formed a lovely bond with Blake – they adore each other.

“She’s settled in really well and seems to have totally found her feet with us. She really loves a fuss and she’ll literally sit on the knee of anyone who comes to visit.

“Bella is a big dog but an absolute softie – she’s been the perfect match for us and we can’t imagine life without her now.”

Harry has been enjoying trips in a camper van and walks in the local park with his new owner Jim French. Malnourished when he was found, he had put on a third of his body weight in RSPCA care three months later. 

“He’s never happier than when he’s running,” said Mr French, who adopted Harry in June after seeing him on the animal centre’s website. “We always had dogs when we were growing up and I was keen to adopt a decent sized one, so Harry is just the right companion for me, especially as I work from home.

“I’ve been continuing with his training and his lead recall and he’s got much better. He enjoys going for a drive and he’s great with other dogs. We’ve been away for breaks in my camper van too. He really does love life, although he has a habit of sleeping in the most inappropriate places – like wrapped around a door frame!”   

Ashleigh Kay, manager of the Preston and District Branch animal centre, said: “Both dogs were a pleasure to care for. All the staff and volunteers adored them and we’re so grateful to James and Jordan for choosing to adopt – we know they are both going to be spoiled and loved this Christmas.

“We’d encourage anyone who is thinking of welcoming a pet into their family to look on our website and social accounts for more information about the animals we currently have in our care who are waiting for their forever home, or call us on 01772 792552.”  

The dogs’ former owner was banned from keeping animals for a decade.

New figures from the RSPCA released last week show that up to the end of October, its dedicated emergency line had received 43,360 reports of neglect. In Lancashire alone, the charity received 1,454 reports about neglected animals in the first ten months of this year.

The RSPCA is asking supporters to join the Christmas Rescue by donating to help its rescue teams reach the thousands of animals who desperately need them. Donors can also support the work of the RSPCA Preston and District Branch animal centre.

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