Benson, a Staffy rescued from appalling conditions in 2022, has sadly passed away despite finding love and care.
Benson was very thin when they found him and wore a tight muzzle that stopped him from eating and drinking. Vets said you could see all his bones, and he also had waxy ears and an eye problem.
Benson bit and rubbed himself because of a skin issue, and the tight muzzle caused skin loss. He also had to sleep on hard surfaces, causing further hair loss. Luke and Melissa Hankins admitted they harmed Benson by failing to treat his poor condition and weight loss.
Despite his past, Benson loved his new family, and Abbie said he was a sweet dog when the couple adopted him from the RSPCA shelter. He trusted people again after the rescue and only wanted love.
Benson loved to cuddle, sunbathe, and play with his ball. Scott remembers Benson as lovable, saying they gave him a second chance and he brightened their lives, and also they thanked the RSPCA for their help.
Seven months prior, the family welcomed a baby boy, but sadly lost Benson earlier this month. He had to be put to sleep because of health issues, and he lived to be about 17 years old.
Abbie and Scott raised over £200 for the RSPCA and hope to raise even more funds encouraging people to adopt older pets. Scott remembers Benson as a puppy, as he didn’t act his age, even as an older dog.