Charlie the King Charles spaniel was found with rotting teeth and a heart condition in Canterbury woodland

by Alex Claridge

A dog found abandoned and tied to a tree in Canterbury woodland had rotting teeth and a heart condition.

King Charles spaniel Charlie was discovered dumped in Blean Woods and also had matted hair which had been allowed to grow out of control.

The eight-year-old was taken to Companion Care vets, in Wincheap, where staff believe his condition had been allowed to develop while he was living with someone.

He was microchipped, but the family whose telephone number appeared on the chip deny he belongs to them.

Companion Care is now looking for Charlie's rightful owner or to find him a new home.

Veterinary nurse Shelly Thorne said: "It's difficult to say how long he was there and we don't really know what happened.

"He wasn't emaciated, but his teeth were rotten and his hair had become matted, plus he has a heart condition.

"It's amazing that someone could allow this to happen to a little dog."

Staff at the vets have cut his hair and removed all his rotting teeth as they try to nurse him back to health.

Shelly added: "The people whose number appeared on the microchip denied any knowledge of owning Charlie, so it's a case of hopefully finding whoever does own him.

"Failing that, we are trying to find him a new home."

Last year, the RSPCA reported there were 65% more abandoned pets in 2011 than in 2007 - mostly due to people not being able to afford to keep them.

The charity says it receives 25,000 phone calls a week about abandoned pets and the recession is to blame for the increase in its work.

A dog that lives 12 years will cost its owner almost £10,000 in food, insurance, kennelling, vaccinations and visits to vets because of illness.

If you know anything about Charlie or are interested in finding him a home call Companion Care on 01227 812884.