Five Miniature Schnauzers were found abandoned in a field in a 'shocking' state, an animal welfare charity has said. The dogs - believed to have been used in a puppy farm - had barely been exposed to human contact or the outside world, according to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
Staff immediately sprang into action on the arrival of the Miniature Schnauzers, who were in poor condition with heavily matted and overgrown fur and required treatment for their ears and teeth. The Schnauzers - whose ages ranged from a nine-month-old puppy to six years old - were "all very worried", Battersea said.
The dogs, named Nora, Mave, Orla, Frida and Marge, were taken to Battersea’s Old Windsor centre and given a full makeover with a bathing and grooming session. They made progress as they played together during their socialising time and got used to walking on a lead.
First to leave was Mave, who joined her new family in Berkshire. Her new owners said: “Mave is settling in really well, she loves going out for walks and is first at the door to go out. She now takes treats from our hands and pats my arm when she wants fuss.”
In the following days, Marge and Orla went off to their new homes in the local area, and Frida and Nora went to their new homes in Essex and Kent respectively. Nora’s new owners said: “We all love Nora so much and are very lucky to have found her at Battersea.
“She loves cuddles and has a great temperament. She has quickly become used to her routine of meals, walks and visits, and has made our family complete.”
For more information about Battersea's work and how to offer a dog or cat a new home visit https://battersea.org.uk.
