Flufi was in a paw state

FEELING better: Alice (left) and Kelly Stoneman with Flufi, who they’ve nursed back to health

A CARING mum who rescued a stray dog she found bruised and starving was shocked to find the RSPCA wouldn’t take him in.

When Kelly Stoneman found the mongrel while out walking near Park Bridge, Bardsley, the animal lover felt compelled to help.

Wasting away and covered in matted fur, the pooch, which Kelly (33) has now named Flufi, was in desperate need of care.

She took him to her home on Thomas Street, Lees, and first phoned a dog warden to ask for collection

Later Kelly instead headed to the local RSPCA branch to see if they could take him.

Kelly said: “You would think the RSPCA would take in any animal in need but they said no because he was a stray. I was a bit confused because the dog was obviously in a bad way.”

Kelly decided to give Flufi a new start and in life. Local pet stores warmed to her story and offered grooming and food.

“He’s a really nice dog and I want to take him in as my own. I’ve been introducing him to my other dog, Dexter, and they seem to get on.

“Flufi does a lot of sleeping at the moment, as if he’s trying to get stronger.

“When I first found him I was worried a vet might put him down, and I just wanted to give him a chance of getting better. My daughter adores him.”

Leanne Plumtree, from the RSPCA, said: “RSPCA branch animal centres’ main remit is to rehome animals that have come into them from those officers as a result of cruelty and neglect and they cannot take in stray dogs.”