Starving dog discovered tied to tree on sidewalk

A local animal charity has shared an emotional story about a malnourished dog that was discovered tied to a tree on a public footpath. The dog, named Rudi, was found in a severely underweight condition, with the charity stating he weighed less than half the typical weight for his breed.

Rudi, a lurcher, was located by a member of the public near a golf course in Newport and was then taken to All Creatures Great and Small in Cwmbran, Torfaen. Upon arrival at the center, he weighed just 11kg (1.7 stone), which is comparable to the weight of a male French bulldog. Angharad Williams, the sanctuary manager at the center, explained that this was far below the expected weight for an adult male lurcher, which typically exceeds 25kg.

The center immediately initiated a feeding plan to prevent refeeding syndrome, a dangerous condition that can occur when a starved animal is given a large meal too quickly. \”If a dog has been starved for a long time and is given a large meal, they might inhale it, and their system can\’t handle it,\” she said. \”So he\’s being fed little and often.\”

Rudi was found tied to a tree near Tredegar Park golf course on Wednesday. A member of the public who discovered him called the animal shelter and brought him straight to the center. When Rudi arrived, he was described as \”extremely emaciated and dehydrated,\” unable to stand and lacking energy. Despite his condition, he was noted as a \”sweet boy\” who was friendly to everyone.

Although the origin of Rudi is unknown, Ms. Williams suspected he had previously lived in a home. He recognized what a harness was and responded positively when told he was going for a walk.

\’A lot happier\’

Ms. Williams reported that the feeding plan had already begun to show positive results. Although only a few days had passed, Rudi was improving and \”doing well.\” She noted that his energy levels were increasing and that he was becoming \”a lot happier.\” His hydration levels were also slowly rising.

She also mentioned that the center has seen a recent increase in cases of malnourished animals arriving at the facility. In the last three months, three malnourished dogs have been brought in. \”If an animal is suffering—whether found or it\’s their own animal that\’s in that state—take them to a local vet so they can be treated immediately,\” she advised.

Ms. Williams highlighted the risks associated with animals being left tied up outside such centers. \”Every minute matters,\” she said, emphasizing that animals may not be found in time if left unattended.

Regarding Rudi, the next step is to find him a foster home. \”Hopefully we\’ll see him continue his recovery. Fingers crossed.\”

Other recent animal rescue stories include:

• An injured seal pup rescued after being separated from its mother.
• A bulldog found with ribs \”sticking out of his body.\”
• A dog who never left the side of its deceased owner before being rescued.