A severely abused and emaciated dog found locked in a tiny cage, with multiple untreated injuries, is now thriving in a loving home thanks to the compassion of a stranger and the work of the RSPCA.
Bella, a brindle Staffordshire bull terrier-cross, was rescued in March 2024 from a property in Leicester after a concerned man visited and was shocked by her condition. The dog was trapped in a cage so small she couldn’t stand, her ribs and skull fractured, her body skeletal from starvation, and her spirit clearly broken.
Picture credit: RSPCA
Her then-owner showed no remorse, telling the rescuer, “She just won’t die,” and admitting to hitting Bella over the head with a hammer multiple times and depriving her of food for over a week. Disturbed by the cruelty, the man insisted on taking Bella, buying her on the spot and rushing her to the PDSA for emergency treatment.
Bella was stabilised, rehydrated, and slowly reintroduced to food. She was then transferred to the RSPCA’s Newbrook Animal Hospital in Birmingham, where X-rays revealed she had suffered at least three separate sets of injuries, including skull fractures and broken ribs—clear signs of prolonged abuse.
RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Karl Marston led the investigation. “Bella was in a horrific state. Without her rescuer stepping in, I honestly don’t know if she would’ve survived,” he said.
The former owner was interviewed and initially claimed Bella’s injuries were accidental. However, in court, he pleaded guilty to three offences under the Animal Welfare Act, including causing unnecessary suffering. He later admitted to throwing a hammer at Bella on two separate occasions. A judge sentenced him to 10 months in prison and imposed a lifetime ban on keeping animals.
Thanks to swift intervention and months of veterinary care, Bella made an incredible recovery. Her rescuer, who wishes to remain anonymous, later entrusted her to a family friend, knowing she needed a calm, nurturing environment. Bella now lives with Carol Wood, 60, and her 22-year-old son Chris in Leicester.
Picture credit: RSPCA
Carol, who works in dementia care for the NHS, said Bella quickly adapted to her new home. “She was nervous at first, but now she’s playful, affectionate, and absolutely part of the family,” she said. “She loves cuddles, often sleeps on our beds, and has even learned to drop clothes by the washing machine after sneaking them from upstairs!”
Chris, who has struggled with mental health, finds comfort in Bella’s presence. “Her happy face inspires him each morning,” said Carol. “She’s bright, eager to learn, and brings so much joy into our home.”
The RSPCA is sharing Bella’s story as part of its Summer Cruelty Campaign, which highlights the vital work its staff and volunteers do every day to save animals from abuse and neglect.
Bella’s rescuer said: “I love animals, and when I saw her—so scared and broken—I knew I had to act. I’m glad justice was served, and I know she’s now living the life she deserves.”
