A DOG who was found abandoned inside a Blackpool church is to be reunited with his owner.
The dog, Cracker, was left at Sacred Heart RC Church in Blackpool last month. On Wednesday, the RSPCA said that the dog would be looked after by a local charity, Street Paws, until his owner was “back on her feet”.
The dog was left tied up next to the altar on 18 December with a note that read: “Please believe me when I say I haven’t done this easily. My dog means the world to me and I don’t know what else to do. I’ve no home or money now for him.
“Life has taken a really bad turn for me and I couldn’t imagine him being outside with me cold and hungry. I love you and I am so so so sorry.
“He has got quite tender front paws, I’ve been treating them for about a month now but they are still sore.
“My heart is broken and I will truly miss him more than words can say. I hope he can be found a new home he deserves. I love you and I am so, so, so sorry.xxxx”
An RSPCA inspector, Will Lamping, collected Cracker, who has been looked after at an animal centre. He said this week: “Cracker’s story has really captured the hearts of the nation, and everyone has fallen in love with this little dog. The outpouring of support for Cracker — and his owner — and the publicity his story has received resulted in us finding Cracker’s owner.
“We’re so pleased that Cracker — who is actually named Rooney — will be going back to his owner once she’s back on her feet. Alison [the owner], from Blackpool, is thrilled to be having him home soon. . .
“I’d like to thank everyone who has shared Rooney’s story, offered help and support to his owner, enquired about offering him a home, and played a part in enabling us to reunite Alison and Rooney and get this lovely dog back home where he belongs.”
The founder of Street Paws, Michelle Southern, said: “Rooney’s story has really touched the hearts of the nation, but, sadly, it’s not uncommon. People who have no home are forced to make heartbreaking decisions to give up their pets, as they have no other choice.”