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Harrogate RSPCA appeal after underweight and wounded dog found outside pub

Friday, 27 March 2026 10:10

Staffordshire bull terrier Bella was discovered outside The Dormouse Pub in York.

A severely underweight and injured dog found outside a pub has prompted an appeal for information from Harrogate's branch of the RSPCA.

The charity says the tan and white female Staffordshire bull terrier-type dog was discovered by a member of the public outside The Dormouse Pub in Clifton Park Avenue, York, on the morning of March 5th before being taken into care.

The dog, believed to be around six years old and previously named Bella, was identified through a microchip scan, but her registered owner’s details were found to be out of date.

A spokesperson for RSPCA York, Harrogate & District said:

“Bella was severely emaciated upon examination, both her ears were ulcerated, and she was covered in a number of suspicious wounds that may have been caused by dog fighting.

“The six-year-old bullbreed was given antibiotics and is currently doing well thanks to our incredible team who say she's the sweetest girl, with a wagging, trusting tail.

“A scan for a microchip revealed she was called Bella, although her registered owner’s details were out of date.” 

Officers have since returned to the area to review CCTV footage and speak with local businesses as part of ongoing enquiries.

Bella is now being cared for at the RSPCA’s York, Harrogate & District Branch animal centre in Landing Lane, where staff initially raised concerns about her condition.

A veterinary assessment gave her a body condition score of two out of nine, indicating she was significantly underweight, and she was treated for multiple wounds and ear issues.

Since arriving at the centre, Bella has been receiving veterinary care including antibiotics and a tailored feeding plan, and staff say she is beginning to regain weight and strength.

The York, Harrogate & District Branch, an independent charity responsible for funding its own work locally, is covering the cost of Bella’s treatment and ongoing care.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference number 01748572.

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