Abandoning an animal is a pretty callous thing to do. Whatever the reason behind it, it's hard to fathom a justification for leaving a pet to fend for themselves in the big, wide world.
So prepare yourself for an extra element of heartbreak with this story that has emerged from Cumbria, UK.
A blind border collie named Roy and his best mate Bess (also a border collie) were dumped in the woods in the South Lakeland area. A person walking through the area found the pair of canines tied up.
Advert
The RSPCA believes they used to work on a farm but had been abandoned because the owner couldn't take care of them anymore.
RSPCA Westmorland branch manager Christine Lowe said: "The most important thing for this pair is that they are rehomed together. They're extremely close and Roy relies heavily on Bess.
"Roy is blind in one eye and has seriously impaired vision in the other so he relies on Bess, in many ways. She's essentially his doggy guide dog!
"They are both lovely, friendly, happy dogs who deserve a home where they'll get all of the affection they crave as they come into their senior years."
Advert
The RSPCA is now looking for someone with a big heart to adopt them and let them enjoy life again. They're familiar with simple commands like 'sit' and are able to be left at home for short periods of time.
Even though Roy has Bess to help him navigate the world around him, it will take a bit of work to get them settled.
Christine continued: "We believe they've never lived in a domestic environment and are not house-trained, and have lived outside most of their lives, so we're looking for new owners who are prepared to work with them or who have suitable outside accommodation for them.
"They need a home where they can live out their days in comfort with someone who understands their unique needs."
Advert
The poor dogs just need a nice, new owner that wants to look after them. They'll be rehomed under the RSPCA's Elderly Animal Rehoming Scheme, which will give the new owners assistance with vet fees.
As the RSPCA says on its website: "Some food, a walk and somewhere sheltered to sleep and they would be very content indeed."
So if you've got the space and think you're in a position to take care of a pair of dogs responsibly, then please consider adopting Bess and Roy.
Featured Image Credit: RSPCA