A rare breed dog, found by railway workers emaciated and covered in tar, has prompted a competition to find him a name to help raise funds for his vet bill.
The young English Setter, who is around 18 months old, shocked vets who said they have never seen a dog so skinny and still alive.
The animal was found when he wandered into a workers hut at the side of railway tracks where staff quickly found him food and called for help.
The dog, who weights just 15 kilos but should be 30, is being cared for by Ravenswood Pet Rescue in the Fens.
Shelley Ridgeon, of Ravenswood, said: “We are asking people to pay £1 a time to suggest a name to help raise money for his vet bill. Also we need donations of dry puppy food and quilts or bedding.
“He is a rare breed which makes this so unbelievable. He is one of the skinniest dogs seen by the dog warden who collected him. The vet said he has never seen such a starved dog still alive.
“He is eating well but has an upset tummy so we hope to build him up slowly.
“The tar obviously got on to his fur when it was hot as it has dried and stuck like glue.
“He is under sedation while the vets try to remove the tar but he can only be under for short periods of time as they try to peel it off him. He is so frail, it is a lot to put him through.
“He is in really good spirits, although really frightened of coming out of his kennel. In spite of all of he has been through he is sweet natured and quite bright.
“He now just needs lots of vet care, coupled with cuddles and love to get his confidence back and build his strength up. There’s not an ounce of fat on him, so he was rescued just in time.
Ravenswood is an established rescue, run by Fenland District Council dog warden Caroline Trigg, and takes in animals from across the Fens and also five London boroughs.
The animals live with foster carers until they can be found new forever homes.
Shelley said: “We are always looking for new foster carers who can offer a loving temporary home to a dog. We provide bedding and food. All people need to have is patience, a bit of time, plenty of love and a secure garden.
“It is really rewarding being a volunteer knowing you are helping the dogs on their next step to having a good life.
“Obviously some of our foster carers fail and end up keeping the dog, but that too is a success story!”
• To suggest a name visit the Ravenswood Paypal donate link and write the name and your details in the comment box while making payment.
• If you would like to be a foster carer, and live in the March, Wisbech, Chatteris area, call Shelly on 07530-178526.
• Drop off food to Shelley at 17 Estover Road, March or drop to the Ravenswood Pet Rescue vintage and seconds shop at Walsoken .
• Donations can be made to Triovets at Chatteris of Terrington Vets.
• Visit the Ravenswood Facebook page.
• Visit their website to see dogs currently available for rehoming.
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