Unprecedented surge in dog abandonment and neglect cases alerts reported by USPCA

A severely malnourished boxer dog which came to the USPCA after being physically thrown out of a moving car close to Newry.

The charity has been responding to reports of a dog found weighted down in water in the Moy area over the weekend.

They commented that this is the latest in a series of distressing cases recently, and that they are witnessing an unprecedented surge in cases of dog abandonment and neglect.

Many of these dogs show obvious signs of neglect, including malnourishment, and untreated medical conditions, indicating prolonged suffering and hardship.

The dog is now on the road to better health thanks to the charity's help.

Siobhan McHaffie, Director of Operations and Development at the USPCA states “The rise in abandonment and neglect of dogs is hugely concerning, and the levels of neglect we are seeing in unwanted dogs coming into our care is unprecedented.

"We have seen the number of stray dogs brought into our care almost double compared to last year, with last month seeing the highest number of strays ever brought into our Centre.

“In the past week alone, our team have dealt with two serious and distressing cases of neglect in abandoned dogs. Both dogs are now getting the vet treatment, care and attention they deserve. One of the cases is now being investigated by the PSNI and Council Animal Welfare team. It involves a severely malnourished boxer dog which came to us after being physically thrown out of a moving car close to Newry.

“We would urge members of the public to help by reporting cases of dog abandonment and neglect to their local council. Cases of cruelty should be reported to the PSNI.

“In extreme cases of cruelty and neglect you can also notify the USPCA, and we in turn can follow up with the relevant authorities.”