Hero Patterdale Terrier Survives Horrific Badger Baiting Attack
Fig, a patterdale terrier-type dog, was rescued by the RSPCA last month after turning up with gruesome injuries to his mouth, jaw, and lips. Vets suspect his wounds were caused by brutal badger baiting.
Mystery Surrounds Injured Dog’s Origin
The battered pooch wandered into a yard at Painscastle covered in mud, parched and in agony. A kind member of the public rushed him to a vet in Hay-on-Wye on October 14, who immediately alerted the RSPCA.
RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben, with over 20 years’ service, called Fig’s injuries “one of the worst” he’s ever seen. Despite receiving calls from the public, the charity has yet to discover what happened to Fig or where he came from.
“Fig is such a lovely dog and we hope once he’s fully recovered, he’ll find a forever home,”
said Keith.
Bright and Brave Fig on Road to Recovery
Since arriving in RSPCA care, Fig – described as happy and affectionate – has been healing remarkably well. Senior clinician Jonathan Fitzmaurice from the Merthyr Tydfil Veterinary Clinic confirmed Fig only suffered soft tissue damage.
“He’s missing skin and lips from the corners of his mouth and jaw. He’ll have permanent scars and won’t regain his lips, but he’s bright, eating well and doesn’t seem bothered by the food that spills out,” said Fitzmaurice.
Fig is due for surgery to remove an exposed canine tooth and possibly receive a skin graft. The RSPCA hopes to rehome him soon.
Help Fig and Other Rescued Animals This Winter
The RSPCA has already spent around £300 on Fig’s treatment, plus additional boarding and initial veterinary costs. A donation of just £12 could cover a clinical exam for rescued animals at their hospitals.
This winter, the RSPCA expects to save thousands of animals from cruelty and neglect. To support their life-saving work, visit www.rspca.org.uk/xmas and #JoinTheRescue.
If you find an animal in distress or suspect animal cruelty, call the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999. Any information could aid their investigations and save lives.
