Dogs 'dumped like rubbish' in wood - pet charity

The surviving pair of bulldogs may require surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, according to an animal charity

A dog has been found dead and two others “dumped like rubbish” in woodland near Rotherham, an animal charity said.

The three bulldogs were found in woodland on Saturday near The Grange Golf Club, with the surviving pair taken to Thornberry Animal Sanctuary in Sheffield.

The pair, named Samson and Delilah by the animal sanctuary, may require surgery for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), which is common in bulldog breeds.

The rescue centre warned it had rescued more pregnant dogs and puppies this year than in the previous 10 years and said it was now "completely full".

The dogs may have come from a puppy farm, according to Thornberry Animal Sanctuary

The charity said Samson had “horrendous allergies, his skin red and raw”, with both dogs having "compromised breathing".

It said Samson and Delilah probably came from a puppy farm, as bull breeds became increasingly popular during the pandemic and sold for thousands of pounds.

Writing on Facebook, the animal sanctuary said: "We can only assume that they have been dumped there like rubbish."

The dogs were found in woodland near Grange Park Golf Club near Rotherham

The charity added: “These dogs didn’t ask for this, they both have the most beautiful temperaments."

"They are safe now, medication has started, our team is committed to their welfare and we will do what we have to ensure they are free of pain and get to live out the remainder of their lives happy and loved.”

Helen Connelly, the charity's general manager, said the centre currently had 29 kennels and 31 dogs, adding: " Our staff are working long hours and then taking pets home.”

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