Personnel at Gozo SPCA were horrified at the state of a Cocker Spaniel they have named Shelley and which they picked up from Wied Ghasri.

Centre manager Betty Berry said she had never seen a dog's coat in such bad condition. Moreover, the dog is partially blind, has badly infected ears and abscesses between her toes. It is still a young dog, probably between two and three years of age.

But despite all of its afflictions, the dog is friendly and affectionate. Shelley had to be shaved down to the skin and is undergoing treatment for infections while living with an SPCA volunteer. Gozo SPCA has picked up seven cocker spaniels, in similar condition, over the past few years. Ms Berry believes that all of the dogs belonged to the same person and were kept on a tiled yard or rooftop.

The Gozo SPCA is determined to ensure that the owner is found, charged with cruelty and banned from causing suffering to any more dogs.

The society appealed to the public for information about where these dogs are kept. It is suspected they may be kept in Marsalforn. There may be several more on the premises.

Ms Berry can be reached on 9980 7067 or at bberry@waldonet.net.mt.