Scottish SPCA

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Westie and poodle found in lay-by

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after a poodle and West Highland terrier were found in a lay-by next to a busy road.

A member of the public discovered the terrified young female dogs at the side of the A70 between Muirkirk and Douglas on Wednesday evening (10 October) and contacted us for help.

The poodle, who is between two and three years old, is suffering from a skin complaint while the westie, around a year old, is in good overall condition.

Both dogs are now being cared for at our Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Cardonald, where they have been named Wilma and Betty.

Inspector Stewart Taylor said, "Thankfully the man who spotted Wilma and Betty pulled over and took them to safety before contacting us.

"It's a busy road, particularly with lorries, and it was dark when they were found so they could easily have come to harm.

"Unfortunately, it seems very likely Wilma and Betty were dumped in the lay-by as it's quite a remote spot, around four miles away from the nearest town of Murikirk.

"Betty is suffering from a skin complaint which may be the result of a flea allergy and both are absolutely petrified at the moment. Despite this, they are very friendly and good natured dogs.

"They weren't wearing collars and aren't microchipped so we're appealing to anybody who recognises Wilma and Betty to contact us as we are very keen to trace their owner."

Abandoning an animal is an offence and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.