Comet, a young mastiff-cross who was found stabbed multiple times and chained to a lamppost in Bilston during sub-zero temperatures in December 2024, has defied the odds and is now thriving in a loving new home. The RSPCA confirmed that the dog, who was 'bleeding out' from three puncture wounds on his back, has fully recovered and now weighs a healthy 30 kilograms.
Rescue in freezing conditions
Baljit Dhamia, an RSPCA animal rescue officer, described the harrowing scene when he arrived at a public footpath in Bilston. The canine was wearing a prong collar that dug into his neck with every movement, and temperatures had dropped to -5 degrees Celsius overnight with strong winds. 'He was very distressed and disorientated,' said Dhamia. 'I had to gently coax him with some food and then stroked him and spoke to him to gain his confidence. But I knew I had to work fast to get him into a portable kennel and rush him to the vets.'
Three stab wounds and a desperate journey
The dog, later named Comet, had been tied to a lamppost with a lead attached to the prong collar, preventing any movement. 'The metal would dig into him and cause further injuries,' Dhamia added. Concerned bystanders helped load the kennel into the officer's van. 'I really thought he was going to die as he had three stab wounds bleeding out, and you never know if there is internal bleeding as well. It was awful to see. I rushed him to the hospital, which was about 35 minutes away, and it seemed like a really long journey as I was so worried for him.'
Recovery and a new beginning
Comet spent eight days at the RSPCA's Birmingham Animal Hospital before being transferred to the charity's Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home. His new owner, who wished to remain anonymous, said the family was initially planning to adopt a large breed dog in a year's time but changed their minds after seeing Comet's story. 'It was heart-breaking to read how he had been stabbed and left tied up outside, alone in the dark and the cold. I just saw his face and I couldn't get him out of my mind, so my partner suggested we apply for him.'
Settling in and supporting the campaign
Comet quickly adapted to his new environment. Both owners work from home, and noting his interest in their office chairs, they bought him a low one with a blanket. 'He is often chilling there now. We wouldn't be without him – he really is a loveable goofball. Sometimes when you touch him he flinches, but he has such a big heart. This is why we are supporting the RSPCA’s Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign.'
RSPCA's summer crisis
The campaign, launched this summer, highlights the charity's busiest period. According to RSPCA data, there were more than 6,000 calls to its emergency line in June, July and August last year, compared to 3,852 calls for the same period in 2021. The charity urges the public to donate and help save other animals like Comet.
