Dalmatians saved from real-life Cruella (From The Argus)

Dalmatians saved from real-life Cruella

7:10pm Tuesday 28th October 2008 in

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Dalmatian dogs rescued from a real-life Cruella De Vil are being cared for in Shoreham.

Pongo and Perdy, named after characters from the Disney films, were among 48 dalmatians found in a field in Cornwall.

Running around in packs, some of the dogs were so riddled with mange that their spots had faded from their coats.

Neighbours called the RSPCA complaining about the smell and noise coming from the field where a breeder was keeping the dogs.

She was reprimanded by the RSPCA for the conditions the dogs were kept in but not prosecuted as the animals has been given food and water.

The charity issued the breeder with a warning notice to improve general conditions, provide adequate shelter and ensure the dogs were treated for mange.

All but six of the dogs were rescued and are being cared for around the country.

The breeder was allowed to keep the remaining six dogs, all of which were neutered, but claimed that she would now leave the country because she could not face a life where she was not “surrounded by dogs”.

Pongo and Perdy were taken to the Dogs Trust in Shoreham.

Although Perdy has already been found a new home, eightyear- old Pongo still needs a loving owner to take care of him.

Naomi Tucker, from the trust, said he was a lovely dog who was still a bit nervous but would settle down in the right environment.

She said: “Pongo is much more confident around people now but needs a good home to go to.

“He would benefit from being kept with another dog to help settle him and be with children who are aged over 12.

“Dalmatians are cheeky characters.

They were originally bred to run alongside horse-drawn carriages and so can be energetic, but they make lovely pets.”

Anyone interested in offering a home to Pongo or any of the other 78 dogs being cared for at Shoreham should call 01273 452576.

The centre, in Brighton Road, can be visited between midday and 4pm on any day except Tuesdays.