DOG Rescue Newcastle president Sue Barker has made a plea to the Hunter community to report neglected pets after she took in two of the most neglected dogs she’s seen in 35 years of animal rescue.
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Two Shih Tzus were given to the voluntary rescue group at the weekend and raised concerns.
The dogs’ condition was “appalling” after “years and years of neglect,” Ms Barker said.
“Anyone visiting this property would have seen these dogs in this condition, and no one’s done anything about it.
“It’s the condition of their skin, they’re just absolutely red raw with no fur, their ears are all inflamed. They looked like skinned rabbits, basically.”
The two dogs are now with carers, but Ms Barker said the rescue group has seen increasing mistreatment in recent years.
“The neglect in dogs that we’re seeing, I’ve never seen to such a level,” she said.
“This is a plea to the public, care providers, neighbours or whoever sees an animal in this condition, call the authorities.”
Dog Rescue Newcastle has about 500 members with over 150 dogs in care.
Anyone with concerns for an animal is advised to contact the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
