Injured puppy has fighting chance

Pup found on the Woodenbong tip.

RSPCA

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A SMALL puppy found half-dead under a pile of garbage at Woodenbong tip will live at least until the end of the week, the RSPCA has said.

It had been feared the nameless three-month-old pup, which had been brutally bashed and dumped in a rubbish bin, might have to be euthanased yesterday because the attack left her with brain damage so severe it had sent her blind.

However after a traumatic 72 hours, RSPCA regional inspector Alistair Hills said the puppy had a fighting chance of survival.

"(The vet has) done another examination and found a few things which are more hopeful," Mr Hills said. "She's got improved hearing and improved visual function. She's more aware of her surroundings, whereas before she wouldn't know people were around until they touched her or picked her up."

Mr Hills said the puppy was still in a fragile state. The vet would continue to monitor her through the week to see how she was once the swelling on her brain had subsided. He would decide on Friday whether she would have to be euthanased.

"In terms of a full recovery, we don't know just yet," Mr Hills said.

The plight of the puppy has distressed animal lovers from all over the world and her story has been told in numerous blogs and newspapers.

People from as far away as Canada have voiced their concern. Several animal lovers even offered to adopt the pup and pay her vet bills.

If the person who attacked and binned the dog is found, they could face a charge of aggravated cruelty. The offence carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail and fines of up to $22,000.

People with any information should contact the RSPCA on 0262828300.

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