THIS emaciated dog was found close to death in Abbey Meads in what has been labelled the ‘worst case of animal neglect in Swindon.’ The three-year-old whippet was taken into the council’s animal welfare centre late on Monday night after she was found wandering the streets by concerned members of the public.

The little fighter, nicknamed Star by the rescue team, weighs less than half her normal body weight at just 6.6kgs, she is covered in mange and has a serious worms problem.

Animal welfare officer at Swindon Council Alison Waine has condemned the dog’s owners and said her condition is inexcusable.

She said: “This is the worst case of animal neglect I have ever seen.

“She is literally just skin and bone. She looks like a walking skeleton.

“I am completely astounded that she has so far managed to stay alive and there is no excuse in this world for the condition she was found in.

“It is too shocking for words.”

Alison added that the council is now desperate to trace the dog’s owners and question them over the state she was found in.

Star was put on a drip and will be given tiny amounts of food every two hours because her body would not be able to cope with any more at the moment.

After receiving emergency veterinary treatment in Swindon, she will be taken to a lurcher and greyhound rescue centre in Evesham where it is hoped she will make a full recovery.

When she is back to full health, it is hoped that she will be rehomed.

Alison added: “I am just hoping that she not only returns to full health but that the emotional scars she will have to carry will be reduced over time.

“This poor animal must have suffered incredibly to have sustained the list of medical conditions she has.”

Anyone with information on who the owners of the dog are, should call the Animal Welfare Team on 01793 445500.

If anyone is interested in making donations towards her care they can go to the Evesham Lurcher and Greyhound Rescue website – www.lurcher.org.uk/ or call 01386 853971.