Walkers near Dorsten-Wulfen in Germany planned to spend the 14th of July enjoying their time in nature. Sadly, their relaxation came to an abrupt end, when they spotted an abandoned towel in the woodland.
Something told them they needed to investigate - but nothing could have prepared them for what they'd find inside.
Horrific discovery
A small, terrified and completely neglected Yorkshire Terrier was wrapped in the towel! And that's how she'd been left on the forest path. Like a bin bag just dumped in the middle of nowhere.
The little dog – later named "Gilly" by volunteers at Dorsten animal shelter – was covered in fleas. Her coat was completely matted, and her fur was filthy.
In "pitiful" condition, Gilly could barely move, let alone walk.
Outrage from animal welfare group
In a moving Facebook post, that has been shared nearly 4,000 times, animal welfare activists shared their outrage: "And when you think people couldn't sink any lower, someone comes along and proves you wrong."
The organisation expressed their horror in no uncertain terms. Whoever abandoned the animal there had callously left Gilly to die. "If you haven't got the time, money or inclination – don't get a pet. There's no justification for this suffering."
Immediately after being found, Gilly was taken to the vet. Helpers worked late into the night caring for the little dog.
"After what felt like two days of solid sleep, she's visibly more comfortable", they later explained in an update.
But Gilly's journey is far from over. Veterinary examinations are ongoing, and initial findings have concerned those caring for her. It seems the little dog is probably quite elderly, may have poor eyesight and she doesn't appear to be house-trained.
Time will tell how she's really faring. But for now one thing's certain: Gilly will never be alone again and she will be loved and cared for for the rest of her days.
