A PUPPY which was dumped in a sealed box on the edge of road near Darlington has found a new home with the veterinary nurse who helped treat her.

At just seven-weeks old Nellie was found dumped in a cardboard box on Bishopton Lane, Sadberge in September.

Now, two months on she has found a new home and is thriving. 

The Beagle-type pup had a skin condition which meant she was almost bald when she was found on the side of the road. 

She was in such a bad condition that it was initially reported that it was thought the puppy was a spaniel.

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After being taken to Grange Vets in Darlington by the man who found her, it was discovered she had a highly contagious skin infection called sarcoptic mange, leaving her mainly bald.

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This condition had been left untreated and caused fur loss and because of this it was not clear what breed of dog she was. 

But now the pet, who has been named Nellie after Nellie the Elephant on account of her large ears, is looking more like her Beagle-type breed.

She is doing well in her new home after vet nurse Debbie Grimes fell in love with her and knew a family who would be keen to give her a home.

Debbie said: “I saw her when she was brought in and she was in such a sorry state - but was such a loveable and friendly little pup. 

“I was among the team caring for her over the next few days and I just fell for her.

“I knew a relative of mine was looking for a new dog and knew Nellie would be perfect - so they have now taken her into their home and she has come on leaps and bounds and is loving getting plenty of fuss and cuddles.

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“We used a simple flea treatment to help Nellie’s skin condition - it is so frustrating that her original owner could have done the same or even asked us for advice and stopped her suffering.”

The RSPCA is still investigating to find the person responsible and animal rescuer inspector Krissy Raine is re-appealing for information.

Krissy said: “I am so glad that from such a bad start in life Nellie has found her perfect fur-ever home and is enjoying the love and life she deserves. She is now about 14 weeks old and looks so healthy and happy.

“However I am still keen to find the person who made the decision to tape up this poor defenceless puppy in a box and then walk away without further thought for her. She clearly meant nothing to them.

“Nellie had been left without any food or water and it was fortunate she was found or this terrified pup would have suffocated in this box frightened and alone.” 

Krissy is keen to hear from anyone who may have seen something suspicious in the area before she was found at 7pm on Sunday, September 5.

She is also eager to hear from anyone who knows of someone who had a puppy like this.

She added: “It is never acceptable to dump animals in these circumstances. If you are struggling to care for your pets, please reach out to friends, family and charities like the RSPCA, rather than leaving them to an uncertain fate.”  

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