When Ruth Thomas-Coxon, an animal rescue officer with the RSPCA, received a call about a dog lying alone in the woods beside a road, she rushed out to investigate. What she discovered left her heartbroken.
Tucked among thick ivy was a tan-colored lurcher, curled into himself, weak, frightened and clearly struggling.
“He was extremely thin and very scared,” Thomas-Coxon said in a press release. “Seeing him curled up there, alone and vulnerable, was truly pitiful.”
The dog, later named Bang Bang, appeared confused and defeated, as though he had been waiting for someone — anyone — to notice him. Though it was impossible to know how long he’d been out there, his condition told a painful story. One of his back legs was badly swollen, and he was desperately in need of food, care and comfort.
Thomas-Coxon was grateful someone had spotted him before it was too late.
Bang Bang was brought to the RSPCA’s Great Ayton Animal Centre, where staff immediately began treating his injuries. When they scanned his microchip, they learned that his previous owners had sold him weeks earlier — meaning Bang Bang had likely been abandoned by the people who were supposed to care for him.
“It’s devastating to think of him left out there alone as the weather worsened,” Thomas-Coxon said. “I’m just so relieved he’s safe now and getting the care he deserves.”
Although frightened at first, Bang Bang quickly began to relax once he realized he was safe. Surrounded by gentle voices and warm hands, his sweet personality started to shine through.
“He’s doing really well, and his leg is improving every day,” said Olivia Duffill, deputy manager of Great Ayton Animal Centre. “He’s begun putting weight on it, which is wonderful. He’s such a lovely-natured dog and absolutely adores cuddles and spending time with our staff.”
With each passing day, Bang Bang grows stronger — both physically and emotionally. Once he’s fully healed and assessed, the team will begin searching for his forever home.
“I don’t think it’ll take long,” Duffill said. “Bang Bang is an incredible dog, and he’s going to make a truly wonderful companion for the right family.”
