People were moved by the images of neglected Barney

People were moved by the images of neglected Barney

10 May 2017

A BADLY neglected dog found abandoned in Newcastle last week is on the road to recovery.

An online social media campaign launched by The Local Facebook page to raise money for the Lurcher’s treatment bills generated an incredible £1,400, with the bulk of the cash raised within 36 hours.

The appeal was launched on Tuesday morning of last week after a shocking image of the poorly cared for and starving dog, who has been named ‘Barney,’ was posted on the social media page by a resident of the Burren Meadow estate. 

Another resident subsequently took the animal to Castle Vets in Castlewellan where the generosity of local people was reciprocated by the veterinary surgery which treated the animal for free.

Newcastle businessman Mark Keown, who helped co-ordinate the fundraising appeal, said as a result of the decision by Castle Vets, it was agreed to split the money between Corran Kennels and the Millvale Animal Sanctuary.

Mr Keown said he is pleased Barney is making progress and has no doubt the money which has been handed over to Corran Kennels and Millvale Animal Sanctuary will be put to extremely good use.

“These organisations do amazing work looking after animals and the money has gone to two very good causes,” he continued. 

Mark explained while he was surprised by the level of generosity shown by people in response to last week’s appeal, he was not surprised they responded so positively to help as they have done so in the past in response to other appeals.

“Everyone played their part to ensure Barney received the help he needed. The amount of money raised was terrific and thanks to Castle Vets for its gesture,” he continued.

“There is tremendous community spirit in the Newcastle area and people were moved by the images of Barney which were posted online last week.”

Mark, who visited the dog at Corran Kennels after presenting staff with a cheque for £650 last Thursday, said he noticed an improvement in the Lurcher’s condition.

“Barney was well hydrated and the treatment he received at Castle Vets has obviously made a difference. He is now jumping around and that is great to see. Last week he looked incredibly sad but he is on the road to recovery and the condition of his skin is a lot better than what it was,” he said.

The Newcastle businessman also confirmed that Barney has now been moved to the Millvale Animal Sanctuary in Leitrim where he can remain until he finds a loving home.

“The dog is being looked after and cared for as will many other animals as a result of local people’s generosity. Barney can now run free and will be looked after until he finds a new home,” added Mark.

In an online post, Helen Marks from Corran Kennels, thanked all those who donated money to cover Barney’s vet fees.

She added: “We were delighted to receive £650 and the money will be put to good use and enable us to continue to vaccinate dogs and keep them a lot longer than the legal requirement of six days until they find their own loving home,” she said, explaining Barney is getting better every day.