“The image of Luna tied to the railings is absolutely heartbreaking…she looked completely broken”

The RSPCA says it is investigating after a “starved and skeletal” dog was found abandoned tied to railings in a public park.

Luna – a Staffordshire bull terrier – was declared by the RSPCA to be ‘severely emaciated’ in what a rescue sanctuary described as ‘the worst case of neglect they have ever seen’.

Wrapped in a pink knitted jumper, Luna was found by a member of the public in Highfield Park, Wigan, at around 7.30pm on June 5, before being brought to safety by a volunteer from Greater Manchester Lost Dog Search and Rescue Capture Team.

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She weighed just over 36lbs but is now said to be recovering well in the care of Dogs4Rescue, who are looking for a loving new home for her.

The RSPCA said blood tests showed Luna was severely anemic and her emaciated condition was putting stress on her organs, although thankfully she did not require hospitalisation. She was also covered in fleas and had very large claws.

The RSPCA said it was made aware of Luna’s case by the charity and has since been gathering information and making inquiries in the local area.

Emma Billington, founder of Dogs4Rescue said: “Luna is a sweet and gentle soul who loves to cuddle and play with her toys. He is making really good progress and gaining weight nicely, has small recovery meals mixed with water and is getting the best care. needs in a home environment with one of our dear amateurs.

“She is still very underweight but everything is looking positive for Luna and hopefully once she is fully recovered we will be able to find her a wonderful new home.

“We are so grateful for the outpouring of love people have shown and would like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has donated towards her care.”

RSPCA Inspector Deborah Beats urged anyone with information about Luna to contact the charity. She said: “The picture of Luna tied to the railings is absolutely heartbreaking, she looked completely broken and it is very clear from her condition that she has not received the appropriate level of care for some time.

“The team at Dogs4Rescue have done an amazing job and she is already looking much better, but it is very important that we find out how and why Luna was left like this.

“We understand that there are people going through difficult times, but abandoning your pet in such circumstances is never acceptable and we urge people to seek help and support through their vets, local rescues and animal welfare organisations. “

Anyone with first-hand information about Luna is urged to call the RSPCA’s complaints line confidentially on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference number 01272815.