The RSPCA has launched an appeal for information after an abandoned chow chow was found with a serious skin condition.
The fluffy puppy named Cobra was collected by dog wardens in Roath, Cardiff, on Sep 28, and despite being microchipped, an owner hasn’t been located.
Cobra is around seven to eight-months-old and was discovered with a painful skin condition on his back, neck and face, and poorly eyes.
RSPCA deputy chief inspector Gemma Black said: “When he was found by the dog wardens they didn’t realise the extent of his skin condition due to his thick fur, but he yelped when they put a collar on him.
“When his fur was clipped back the seriousness of his skin condition was discovered.”
Cobra is currently under the care of Cardiff Dogs Home and is undergoing treatment while the RSPCA tries to track down his family.
“He is chipped to an address in St Mellons, but sadly the details appear out-of-date and so far our enquiries have not led to finding his owner,” Gemma said.
“It is very sad he was left in such a bad condition and hopefully he is on the mend now.”
Cardiff Dogs Home manger Maria Bailie added: “Cobra is doing well and spent most of last week in the office where we could keep an eye on him.
“He is a really friendly and loveable Chow.
“The vet thinks he may need entropion surgery to his eyes too which will be confirmed this week. His treatment is likely to be just under £1,000.”
Cardiff Cabinet Member with responsibility for Cardiff Dogs Home, Cllr Dan De’Ath, said: “Every year Cardiff Dogs Home looks after hundreds of dogs, some like Cobra in a really terrible condition when they arrive.
“The team always does everything within their power to ensure the dogs in their care get the best treatment possible, but helping Cobra is going to be expensive.
“We know these are difficult times for many people, but if anybody is in a position to help Cobra on the road to recovery, our charity partners at the Rescue Hotel have set up a fundraiser, and their support would be very welcome.”