Inside was a living soul in desperate need of rescue – a neglected West Highland Terrier.
His body was trapped in layers of filth and matting so severe, his breed was barely distinguishable. Rocky clung to hope, and now he needs our help to heal.
Read on to learn more about this dog’s journey and how you can help transform his life.
When RSPCA Inspector Richard Carr arrived at the property in Worcestershire the stench of dog faeces hit him immediately. The floors were caked in thick grime.
Inside lived a 9-year-old West Highland Terrier named Rocky, whose condition was so appalling that he was nearly unrecognisable.
His once-white fur had formed an impenetrable matt, tangled with dirt and faeces, leaving his skin red, inflamed, and painfully sore. His legs and face were matted with waste.
Rocky was shy and nervous but despite everything, he was friendly and approached Richard.
Richard knew he had to act immediately. Rocky was rushed to the vet for urgent care. The full extent of his condition became clear: severe inflammation of his ears and skin, matting so dense it required sedation to remove, overgrown nails, and restricted movement in his hindlimbs.
Rocky’s resilience has been nothing short of miraculous.
Sadly his owner passed away, and since being rescued, he has made incredible strides.
Now enjoying fresh air and sunshine at the centre, he is free to play and make new friends. He requires regular medicated baths to soothe his inflamed skin, and his hind legs are undergoing further investigation. Soon, he will also need a dental procedure to address the plaque build-up and undergo neutering.
“It’s great to see Rocky looking transformed thanks to the team caring for him at the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home.
As a charity, the RSPCA works tirelessly to help animals suffering from cruelty and neglect and we’re all so proud of the work done by the teams at branches and centres to give those animals the second chance they deserve.”
Despite all he has been through, Rocky’s spirit shines brighter every day. His true, loving nature is slowly emerging but Rocky’s journey to recovery is far from over—he still needs our help.
Your donation will provide the medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care he so desperately needs.
Every contribution, no matter the size, brings Rocky one step closer to a life free from pain and filled with the love he deserves.
Please consider donating today. Together, we can give Rocky the second chance at happiness he has waited so long for.
Vet bills like all our other costs are rising and Rocky is just one of many animals who need our help every day. Anything raised above Rocky’s needs will be used to help animals just like him at the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home.
To report cruelty or an animal in distress call 0300 1234 999
RSPCA Cotswolds, Gloucester & District Branch
