Published: Wednesday, 9th July, 2008 1:35pm

SSPCA launch appeal after dog dumped in Blairadam Forest

by Siew Peng Lee

Sophie has a "chronic" skin condition according to SSPCA inspectors.

THE Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after a dog was found dumped at Blairadam Forest near Kelty last month.

The dog, a bright tan female collie cross, was found around 7pm on 14th June by Crossgates resident Nikola McRobb (33), who was out mountain biking with her husband and friends.

They spotted the dog on their way to the car park at Blairadam.

Nikola, of Dunfermline Road, recalled, "We thought it was a fox at first because of the colour of her fur and the way she was crouched quite low to the ground.

"The state of her was a shame. About halfway down her back, her skin was all gone and scabby, and the skin from her neck down to her tummy was the same.

"She was lame in one of her back legs and her tail was all mangy as well.

"Her claws were really long as if she had not been able to walk, and she was covered in fleas and looked hungry.

"She was really timid at first but once we patted her she was really friendly and stuck to us like glue."

They took the dog to Cowdenbeath police station, who got in touch with the SSPCA that night.

Nikola added, "We were just crying and angry that someone would leave her like that.

"I've got a dog and a cat and I find it really difficult to believe that someone could do this."

The dog, which has been renamed Sophie by SSPCA staff, is currently at the SSPCA animal rescue and rehoming centre in Balerno and receiving treatment.

SSPCA Fife senior inspector John Chisholm said, "The dog has a very chronic skin condition and was in a bit of a poor way but its body condition was well enough.

"It has a flea allergy and a bit of mange as well. It also has weepy eyes, ear mites, a sore on the back leg and a limp.

"We don't know if she has any other injuries and might have to get an X-ray on that.

"It's unlikely that someone was up in the woods taking the dog in this condition for a walk and we are keen to find out the owner and make enquiries, or to hear from anyone who might have information.

"She's a really nice, friendly wee dog, very biddable and sweet, which makes it all the more harsh that she's been allowed to get into this condition.

"And if she's been dumped, it makes it all the more heart-rending."

The SSPCA can be contacted on its animal helpline at 03000 999 999.

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