Abandoned Shih Tzu is '˜responding well' to vet treatment

Olive pictured after she was found abandoned on a Hemel Hempstead building site - she is now making progress after vet treatment

Olive was handed in to the RSPCA rescue centre in Potters Bar last week by someone who found her hiding on the Three Cherry Trees Lane building site in Hemel.

She was rushed to the vet and the rescue centre manager, Anna White, described her condition as ‘appalling’ and said she was ‘trembling from head to foot’.

Olive, thought to be around two years old, had severe ear and eye infections and abscesses all over her head and neck.

The centre said there was a ‘high chance’ she may not survive but the RSPCA has confirmed that her condition has improved.

RSPCA inspector Stephanie Law said: “She is responding well to treatment.

“Her ears are improving but there are concerns for one of her eyes. The vets say she is bright and is doing really well.

“She is a really lovable little dog and loves having cuddles.

“Although Olive isn’t microchipped, she was wearing a collar so we believe she has an owner somewhere.

“How someone could let her get into this condition is beyond me.

“Olive has obviously been dumped at this building site, in Three Cherry Trees Lane.

“She wouldn’t have been able to make her own way there as she can’t see or hear, and she can barely walk.”

The RSPCA is appealing to the public for help with the investigation and Insp Law has urged anyone who recognises Olive to get in touch by calling the charity’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.