Cornwall Council’s dog welfare and enforcement service is appealing for information after an injured stray Staffordshire Bull Terrier was found wandering in the Old Hill area of Falmouth.

On January 28, the service received a phone call from a member of public who had found the dog alone and in apparently poor health. One of the council’s dog welfare and enforcement officers attended and was shocked to see the condition of the dog which was obviously suffering from a chronic skin condition, hair loss and serious injuries to its tail.

The male, brindle Staffordshire Bull Terrier, named Bruce by officers and estimated to be around four-years-old, was not wearing a collar or tag and had no microchip. He was immediately taken to a vet for emergency treatment and pain relief.

On examination the vet found that the damage to the tail was such that it would require amputation, although further investigation under anaesthetic revealed that the skin of the tail was so infected that there would be a risk to the dog amputate his tail at this point. The tail was debrided, cleaned and dressed and Bruce is currently on a course of treatment to bring the infection under control and to remedy his skin condition.

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, Cornwall Council has a statutory duty to collect and kennel any stray dog. If an owner is not found within seven clear days ownership of the dog transfers over to the council which then engages with rehoming centres.

In this case the dog will be signed over to the National Animal Welfare Trust who will continue to treat his injuries. The council, though is appealing for information as to who might own the dog and how he came to be in this condition. If anyone recognises Bruce or has any information that maybe helpful they should call 0300 1234 212.

Cornwall Council's dog welfare and enforcement officers are working in partnership with the Dogs Trust, who have provided free micro chips for any dog within Cornwall. They are offering totally free micro-chipping for all dogs until March. Anyone wanting to arrange a free chip should call 0300 1234 212.