RESIDENTS in Redditch are being urged to think twice before picking up a pet as a present for Christmas.
In more than 30 years as Worcestershire’s Dog Warden and Animal Welfare Officer Pip Singleton has seen hundreds of unwanted animals tossed out onto the streets after being neglected or even cruelly treated.
Sometimes injuries have been so severe, the animals have died.
Just last month Mojo was picked up from the Worcester area and was just skin and bone with matted, smelly fur.
Pip, who works for Worcestershire Regulatory Services, said: “All Mojo needed was to be fed, watered, groomed and loved.
“Covering the basic needs are part and parcel of owning a dog and unless you are prepared to do this, at least, then do not consider getting a dog for Christmas or any other time of the year.
“To get into such an awful condition, Mojo would have been neglected for a long time which is absolutely abhorrent and how people can watch an animal suffer is beyond me.”
If you are thinking of getting a dog or are finding it difficult caring for a pet you currently have, please get in touch with the Dog Warden Team on 01905 822799.