In September 2023, RSPCA NSW Inspectors responded to a disturbing complaint about a small, white Maltese Terrier being severely neglected in their owner’s backyard. When they arrived, they were met with a heartbreaking sight: the little dog was so heavily matted that he couldn’t see.
Upon closer examination, Inspectors found that his body condition was very poor. However, just how underweight the dog was could not be adequately determined due to the extensive matting of his coat. The dog was seized by Inspectors and taken to an RSPCA NSW veterinary hospital for examination, treatment, and urgent medical care.
Once there, the reality of his situation became even more alarming. The dog, later named Winston, weighed only 3.1 kg and was diagnosed with anemia. Veterinary staff estimated that he had been without proper nourishment for at least three weeks.
Winston was given a full body shave to remove his heavily-matted coat and it was calculated that his fur had accounted for a quarter of his total body weight. He also received all necessary vaccinations, flea and parasite preventatives, and was placed on a high-calorie diet to help him regain his strength. Remarkably, in just four weeks, Winston showed a 100% increase in his total body weight. His anemia improved as he received the necessary nutrition and medical care.
“This is a matter that will stay with me forever,” recalled Inspector Natalie, who managed Winston’s case. “It was both shocking and deeply saddening to understand that a living, sentient being had been subjected to such neglect.”
By November 2023, after months of recovery and love from our staff, Winston found his forever home. His new family embraced him with open arms, and the updates they have since provided continue to fill our teams with joy.
Inspector Natalie expressed her happiness, saying, “We are lucky enough to receive regular updates from Winston’s new family. He is now living the life he deserves, in the best home imaginable.”
Winston’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals and the power of love and compassion.
