Dog’s life takes turn for the better after rescue

It literally was a dog’s life for this hound, who has just been saved from spending another bitter winter living on the streets.

“This old lady only survived because two women who saw her on the street every day gave her food and water. She is 11 years old now and she is in need of a lot of medical care,” explained Carol Mansfield of Lily’s Dog Rescue in Cavan.

Initially it was thought the dog — a basset hound — was male and he was named Jack. However, a vet confirmed Jack is in fact an elderly lady and she is now called ‘Jackie’.

Locals in Cootehill, Co Cavan recall seeing her wandering the road to Monaghan three years ago.

“When she was dumped here she had a good quality harness on her. It rotted away over time and she began to sleep under a bush.

“Then we had the first winter of very bad snow and the two local women got very worried about her,” explained Carol.

The women — Mary and Bridie — could tell she had once been a family pet and although Jackie had lived rough for two winters, the women decided it was time she had a proper home.

Carol, who set up Lily’s Dog Rescue, was able to oblige and Jackie is now lodging with her. “The people of Cootehill looked after Jackie and did a great job. We have now brought Jackie to the vet and she will need a lot of dental treatment and an operation on one of her eyes,” she said. “When she has finished with that she will need a nice new home to spend her last years in. She deserves it after all she has been through and we would like anyone who thinks they can give her the care she deserves to contact us.”

* Facebook page: Lily’s Dog Rescue.