Pups’ mouths bound shut

 

Animal attendant Cheryl with Dr Larry Colson and the two pups

Two border collie cross puppies recently arrived at the Home after having their muzzles bound shut with wire in a case that The Lost Dogs' Home is sadly familiar with.

 
“We’ve had three dogs come in with similar injuries in the past six months,” said Head Veterinarian, Dr Larry Colson.
 
“Unfortunately it appears that callous and cruel owners believe that by binding a dog’s mouth it will prevent the dog from barking. It doesn’t. It is a dangerous and particularly malicious way to inflict cruelty to an animal. Dogs can only regulate temperature by panting. Wiring or taping their mouths shut places them at high risk of overheating – especially in the recent hot weather.”
 
The puppies, named Hamish and Andy, bear scars around their muzzles from the wire that previously bound their mouths shut.

“The puppies are in reasonable health. Their condition shows that they have been able to eat despite the tightly wound wire”.
 
Animal attendant Cheryl has been working with the pups, “Hamish is the mischievous, naughty one. Andy is of course the taller one. I’m spending time on socialising the pair and teaching them basic obedience and to walk calmly on a lead. They’re a handful, but bear no grudge over what’s been inflicted upon them”.
 
Dr Colson urged anyone who witnesses an animal with its mouth bound to contact their local council or The Lost Dogs' Home.
 
“Plain and simple, this practice is cruel. You wouldn’t tape a baby’s mouth shut to stop it crying, so why do it to a dog?”

Nobody has come forward for these pups and authorities have been unable to trace previous owners. The pups will soon be looking for loving homes with owners who can give them plenty of love, care and exercise.

To visit our dogs and cats up for adoption, follow the link.