PLAYFULLY rolling over for a belly rub, it is hard to believe just five months ago beautiful Fleur was starving to death in a filthy cage.

The bullmastiff was one of five dogs rescued by RSPCA officers from horrendous conditions at the former Worcester home of Tracey Munden.

The Worcester News reported that Munden was jailed for 18 weeks after admitting animal cruelty offences.

We printed a picture of an emaciated Fleur on our front page, showing the extent of the abuse she had suffered.

The two-and-a-half-year-old bitch spent over a month in veterinary care, paid for by the RSPCA, receiving treatment for malnutrition and sores caused by her skin growing over the bars of her small cage.

She then came to the Droitwich home of Sheila Tremellen, a specialist in nursing care for sick and abused dogs and puppies.

Fleur had agoraphobia and was frightened to leave the confines of her kennel. She was also terrified by metal noises, had to be taught how to walk properly and how to play, had never seen birds or cars, and had no idea what a lead was used for.

Mrs Tremellen said: “She was terrified of everything because, as far as I can judge, she’s never been out of the crate. Everything had to be shown to her and explained to her.”

After more than three months of intensive care, a healthy and happy Fleur was ready to find a home.

Although she still has hurdles to overcome, she can now begin her second chance at life with her loving new owners in Malvern.

Geraldine Haynes, dog rehoming volunteer for RSPCA Worcester and Mid-Worcestershire branch, said the other four dogs they rescued had also found new homes, but the charity needed support to continue their work.

She said: “We take in animals from Worcester, Mal-vern, Upton-upon-Severn, Pershore, Droitwich, Bromsgrove and Redditch.

“This is our centenary year and we’ve launched an appeal to get our own rescue and rehoming centre. We need to raise the money to do all the work needed and to be able to help more animals.”

The branch, which has rehomed 403 animals already this year – all of which are neutered, vaccinated and microchipped before they go home – has raised half of its £1 million target.

It is currently in the process of obtaining planning permission to build 20 kennels, 20 cat pens and accommodation for rabbits at the new centre near Kempsey, near Worcester.

To donate, volunteer or to find out more about rehoming, call 01905 20822 or visit the website rspca-worcester.co.uk