Four-month-old puppy with severe mange prompts Cornwall appeal

An animal charity in Cornwall has launched an appeal to fund the treatment of a four-month-old puppy suffering from severe mange and extensive hair loss.

Peanut is now being cared for at RSPCA Cornwall Branch’s Venton Centre, near St Columb, after his owners agreed to relinquish him to the charity.

The charity said help was initially sought from its Community Welfare Team, which arranged and funded veterinary care.

However, it said the full extent of Peanut’s condition only became clear when he was seen in person. He had lost large amounts of his coat, while his skin was sore, inflamed and damaged.

Mange is caused by microscopic mites and can lead to significant skin damage. Severe cases can also leave dogs vulnerable to painful secondary infections.

Peanut is expected to require veterinary treatment, medication and careful management of his skin, alongside suitable nutrition and warmth.

RSPCA Cornwall Branch, which is an independent and self-funded local charity, is hoping to raise £2,000 towards his treatment and continuing care.

Leanne Bawden, the branch’s community and fundraising manager, said: “Peanut is only four months old. When you look at him, it is difficult not to think about what a puppy of his age should be doing – playing, exploring and discovering the world around him.

“Instead, his little body has already been coping with a significant skin condition.

“He is safe now. He has people around him who will make sure his treatment, comfort and recovery come first, and we hope that in the months ahead we will be able to share photographs that tell a very different story.”

The charity said it did not yet know how long Peanut’s recovery would take or the full extent of the treatment he would need.

Ms Bawden said seeking support early could make a significant difference when someone was struggling to meet an animal’s needs.

“Now we can concentrate on getting this little boy well and, eventually, finding him the loving home he deserves,” she added.

Donations can be made through the charity’s JustGiving appeal, called Peanut’s Second Chance: Help Our Little Puppy Heal.

The branch said any money raised beyond the cost of Peanut’s treatment would be used to provide veterinary care for other animals it supports.