When Ruth Thomas-Coxon, an animal rescue officer with the RSPCA, received a call about a dog spotted curled up in the woods beside a roadside, she didn’t hesitate. She immediately drove out to investigate, bracing herself for what she might find.
What awaited her was a scene that would stay with her forever.
A Heartbreaking Sight in the Ivy
“There, among the ivy, was a tan-colored lurcher,” Thomas-Coxon recalled in a press release. “He was weak, painfully skinny, and clearly terrified. Seeing him curled up in that way — so small and vulnerable — it was a pitiful sight.”
The dog, who would later be named Bang Bang, didn’t try to run. Instead, he seemed frozen in fear, as though waiting for someone — anyone — to finally notice him. His body told the story of neglect: one of his back legs was swollen, his ribs were visible, and his eyes carried both exhaustion and confusion.
It was likely that Bang Bang had been abandoned, left to fend for himself in the woods. No one knew exactly how long he had been there, but judging by his condition, it had been far too long.
Finally Safe
Thomas-Coxon carefully coaxed Bang Bang out of the ivy and rushed him to safety. The frightened dog was taken to the RSPCA’s Great Ayton Animal Centre, where staff immediately began treating his leg and providing the food and comfort he so desperately needed.
A scan revealed that Bang Bang was microchipped. At first, rescuers felt hopeful that they might be able to reunite him with his family. But when they contacted the registered owners, they were told a disheartening truth: the family had sold him just weeks earlier. Whoever had taken him in had abandoned him shortly after, leaving him alone in the cold woods.
“It’s heartbreaking to think of him out there on his own as the weather’s been deteriorating,” Thomas-Coxon said. “But I’m so relieved he’s safe now, getting the care he needs. Soon, he’ll be able to start his search for a loving new home.”
Healing and Hope
At the centre, Bang Bang began his road to recovery. Though nervous at first, it didn’t take him long to realize he was finally among people who cared for him.
“Bang Bang is doing really well and his leg is improving every day,” said Olivia Duffill, deputy manager at Great Ayton. “He’s begun putting weight on the leg again, which is wonderful progress. What’s even more beautiful is his nature — he’s gentle, affectionate, and absolutely loves cuddles. He spends as much time as he can close to our staff, soaking in the comfort he’s missed for so long.”
The once-fearful dog now wags his tail, eager for affection and reassurance. Every small step of trust he takes is celebrated by the team who are dedicated to restoring his health and confidence.
Looking Toward a Forever Home
As Bang Bang continues to heal, his future looks brighter every day. Soon, he will be fully assessed and ready to begin the search for a permanent home.
“Once Bang Bang has fully recovered from his leg injury, we’ll begin the adoption process,” Duffill explained. “He’s such a fabulous dog, and we’re confident he’ll make a wonderful addition to the right family. Whoever adopts him will be very lucky.”
For now, Bang Bang is safe, loved, and healing — and his story stands as a reminder of why rescue work matters so deeply. From being abandoned in the cold woods to now being cherished and cared for, Bang Bang’s journey is proof that even the most heartbreaking beginnings can lead to happy new chapters.