A ‘sweet-natured’ dog who was so starving he ate glass, batteries and coins, is looking for a forever home.
Eric, a bull breed cross, was described as the ‘thinnest dog ever seen alive’ by the RSPCA inspector who rescued him from the yard of an empty home in March, this year. Inspector Nina Small rushed the dying dog, who was covered in urine, from the home in Accrington, Lancashire, to the vet where he collapsed. But five months later little Eric – who has been renamed as Walter – now weighs a healthy 20kg after making a ‘remarkable recovery’.A spokesperson from RSPCA Lancashire East, who have been caring for Walter, said: ‘He was at death’s door but now he is the picture of health.
‘He’s been in foster care and has made a remarkable recovery thanks to the care and dedication of his family. Now, he is ready for a forever home of his own’.
Nina said: ‘He’s the thinnest dog I’ve ever seen alive. All of the bones in his body were visible, he was covered in urine and his nails were overgrown.Stay consistent with training, play time and rest time for your pets so they don’t get too overwhelmed. Your calm and consistent demeanor will help your pet to understand that they can trust you. Once you earn their trust, understand the schedule, and feel secure in their safe place, both of your lives will be much easier.
‘His faeces had pieces of glass and metal as big as a 50 pence piece in it, and bits of batteries.
‘I believe poor Walter had been confined somewhere out of sight, eating whatever he’s been able to get in his mouth – perhaps a garage or a shed.‘We’re still investigating this case but are thrilled that he’s now back to a healthy weight and full strength so that we can find him a wonderful new home.’
Nina said Walter was a sweet-natured, friendly boy who loved life, people and food.
Walter is excitable and playful around other dogs and would benefit from further socialisation to build his confidence and help him learn some manners, said the RSPCA.
He’s also bouncy so he would be best suited to in an adult-only home or a family with older children.
Nina added: ‘He has a wonderful, energetic personality and lots of character. He loves taking long naps cuddled up next to you and is happy living in a home with cats and another dog.’
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: ‘Walter has had a really bad start in life and would benefit from an experienced owner who can help with his training and give him a safe, home with a steady routine.’
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Walter is fully house trained and travels well in the car. He is happy being left for short periods of time and walks well on a lead with lots of encouragement.
Anyone interested in offering Walter a new home should contact the branch by calling 01254 231118.