AN ABANDONED dog who was found unable to walk has made an amazing recovery and will soon be looking for a new home.

Bella, a brindle lurcher cross saluki, was taken to the RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre in Ringwood after being dumped in Lyndhurst by two men in a pickup truck who tied her to the gate of a property before shouting “look after the dog mate” to the occupant as they drove off on March 23.

The RSPCA found Bella was unable to bear weight on her hind legs.

Inspector Penny Baker said: “It’s heartbreaking to think someone could just abandon a dog like Bella. She was unable to walk and initially we didn’t know why she couldn't stand. The vet who treated her gave pain relief, but found no obvious cause.

“She then came into RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre the following day and went to our clinic for full x-rays which strangely showed nothing so it was concluded it was a possible neurological issue or similar.

“The animal home approached Verwood Hydrotherapy Centre Canine Rehabilitation and South Coast Hydrotherapy who have very kindly provided free therapy and she is making a great recovery. Although she is still a little unsteady at times, she is now up on her feet and walking around.

“We couldn’t be more thankful to the team at the hydrotherapy centre and to the member of the public who kindly brought her into our care.”

Once Bella, who is thought to be around 10 months old, is up to full strength she will be looking to find a new home with owners who can give her the care and support she needs.

The RSPCA is appealing to anyone who knows how Bella came to be abandoned or who was responsible to call the inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018.