A mistreated dog described as the “thinnest ever seen alive” after living on a diet of batteries and glass is now a picture of health and ready to find his forever home.
The dog, named Eric by a veterinary staff member, was so emaciated that his ribs were poking through his fur, and he could not stand or lift his head.
Eric’s claws were so overgrown that they curled over, and the RSPCA said that the bull breed cross was “at death’s door.”
However, now Eric, who has been renamed Walter, has made a “remarkable recovery,” weighing a healthy 20 kilograms (approx. 44 pounds), and is ready to find his “forever home.”
Walter was found languishing in the garden of an empty council house in Accrington, Lancs., by a member of the public on March 2, 2019.
Inspector Nina Small, from RSPCA Lancashire East, rushed the pitifully thin dog to the vet, where he collapsed.
However, now after almost 10 months, with round-the-clock care, Walter is the “picture of health,” according to a spokesman for the RSPCA branch.
The spokesperson said: “He was at death’s door but now he is the picture of health.
“He’s been in foster care and has made a remarkable recovery thanks to the care and dedication of his family. Now, he is ready for a forever home of his own.”
Nina added: “He’s the thinnest dog I’ve ever seen alive. All of the bones in his body were visible, he was covered in urine and his nails were overgrown.
“His feces had pieces of glass and metal as big as a 50 pence piece in it, and bits of batteries.
“I believe poor Walter had been confined somewhere out of sight, eating whatever he’s been able to get in his mouth—perhaps a garage or a shed.
“We’re still investigating this case but are thrilled that he’s now back to a healthy weight and full strength so that we can find him a wonderful new home.”
She further continued: “Walter is a sweet-natured, friendly boy who loves life, people and food.
“He has a wonderful, energetic personality and lots of character. He loves taking long naps cuddled up next to you and is happy living in a home with cats and another dog.”
The RSPCA inspector described Walter as “excitable and playful” around other dogs.
“He would benefit from further socialization to build his confidence and help him learn some manners,” she said.
“As he’s quite bouncy he would be best in an adult-only home or a family with older children.”
A spokesperson added: “Walter has had a really bad start in life and would benefit from an experienced owner who can help with training and giving him a safe home with a steady routine.”
Walter is house trained and travels well in the car. He is happy being left for short periods of time and walks well on a lead with lots of encouragement.
He has a slight skin issue for which he is being treated.
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