Ava the French bulldog found in 'shocking state' in Wisbech

Animal rescuers have been left shocked by the state of a French bulldog brought into their care after being found in Wisbech.

The dog, named Ava, needed urgent medical attention after being brought in to the West Norfolk RSPCA centre at Eau Brink on Wednesday.

Ava was found in an "absolute state" after being found by the dog warden.

After a vet check and a bit of digging with an unregistered microchip workers at the centre found out she is only a baby at 20-months-old.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: "How on this earth could anyone let their dog get in this state.

"She is the sweetest little thing you could wish to meet, absolutely no excuses for her to be like this.

"She has an ulcerated eye, which would have been causing her agony and completely overgrown nails, making it difficult for her to walk.

"Along with the mange that has riddled her skin, making her so sore she bleeds.

"She has been checked over by our vet and is on a cocktail of medication, love and care to get her back on her feet. She has a long road to go but we will be with her every step of the way."

A post to the rescue's Facebook page prompted an outburst of anger and upset from posters, with nearly 130 comments many offering Ava a home when she's well enough.

Others were predicting things are only going to get worse as the cost of living crisis bites harder in the coming months.

One person said: "Sorry to say but think 2023 is going to get worse for this sort of neglect. But there is no excuse whatsoever for this type of neglect,we are pensioners and have gone without ourselves to care for our pets. After all pets don't ask to come into your life we choose to have them."