The story contains images that some may find distressing.
In a harrowing incident during mid-December, a young Mastiff-cross named Comet was found tied to a post on a public footpath in Bilston, West Midlands, suffering from multiple stab wounds on his back. Despite the freezing temperatures, which reached as low as -5°C, Comet was left exposed to the cold overnight, unable to move freely due to a prong collar that caused him pain with every movement.
An alert member of the public contacted the RSPCA, prompting Animal Rescue Officer Baljit Dhamia to respond to the scene. Upon arrival, Officer Dhamia found Comet distressed and bleeding from three serious stab wounds. To prevent further injury, she carefully removed the painful collar and gently coaxed Comet with food before securing him in a portable kennel for immediate transport to the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Hospital.
“I knew I had to act swiftly to get him the urgent care he needed,” said Officer Dhamia. “His wounds were bleeding heavily, and with the cold weather and fear, his chances were precarious.”
At the hospital, Comet received pain relief, antibiotics, and a drip. Under anaesthesia the following day, veterinarians were able to clip, thoroughly clean, and suture the wounds, which measured approximately 2.5cm by 1cm on the surface and extended 5cm deep. After eight days of intensive care, Comet was moved to the Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home to continue his recovery in a calm and supportive environment.
Despite his traumatic experience, Comet remained remarkably trusting and affectionate towards his carers. His resilience and gentle nature soon won over the hearts of staff and volunteers.
He has since been adopted by a local couple who were deeply moved by his story. “We had been considering adopting a large dog in the future, but when we heard about Comet’s situation, we knew we had to help,” said his new owner. “Bringing him home was emotional; he was scared and unfamiliar with the car, but slowly he began to trust us. Now, he enjoys walks, playtime, and cuddling on the sofa.”
The couple have made special accommodations to ensure Comet’s comfort, including providing him with a low office chair fitted with a blanket, a spot where he can relax safely while they work from home. Despite occasional flinches, a reminder of his past trauma, Comet has shown a loving and gentle personality.
To support dogs like Comet who have suffered cruelty, his owners are backing the RSPCA’s Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign.
In a related development, a man has been prosecuted by the RSPCA for the attack and has been banned from owning animals for life.