Content warning
This story deals with a true account of animal neglect and contains some distressing images.
“She was cold and limp in my hands. She couldn’t lift her head.”
This Christmas, bright spark Nova will be surrounded by family. But it’s a miracle she’s still alive. When RSPCA rescuer John Woods first met her, she looked lifeless.
While investigating a case of suspected neglect, John saw a painfully thin puppy lying in the kitchen corner. He picked her up and wrapped her in a blanket. As he rushed her to the nearest vet, he could hear her struggling to breathe. Staff put her on an emergency drip and used heat pads to warm her through.
Nova needed intensive care overnight and was still cold. So, John put her crate on his front seat and blasted the heater while he rushed her to a 24-hour vet.
For the next two days, her condition didn’t improve. Nova was mostly unconscious, being kept alive by glucose and heat.
“She was cold and limp in my hands. She couldn’t lift her head.”
This Christmas, bright spark Nova will be surrounded by family. But it’s a miracle she’s still alive. When RSPCA rescuer John Woods first met her, she looked lifeless.
While investigating a case of suspected neglect, John saw a painfully thin puppy lying in the kitchen corner. He picked her up and wrapped her in a blanket. As he rushed her to the nearest vet, he could hear her struggling to breathe. Staff put her on an emergency drip and used heat pads to warm her through.
Nova needed intensive care overnight and was still cold. So, John put her crate on his front seat and blasted the heater while he rushed her to a 24-hour vet.
For the next two days, her condition didn’t improve. Nova was mostly unconscious, being kept alive by glucose and heat.
Her transformation has just been incredible – it’s hard to find the words. Watching her grow has made me so happy.
We never gave up on Nova
Nova was suffering from starvation, dehydration and hypothermia. A staff member at the vets said hers was the worst case they’ve ever seen. If John hadn’t found her, she likely would have died within hours.
After a few days at the practice, Nova began to perk up. First she lifted her head. Soon, she was wobbling on all four paws again.
A veterinary nurse took her into foster care. Once safe in a supportive home, her curiosity began to shine through. Slowly, she built up the confidence to meet new humans and other dogs.
Sadly, Nova's case is not unusual. We take more than 300 calls a day reporting abandonment and neglect*. So, we need your help to reach the animals who need us most this winter.
*The RSPCA's Wilberforce database. Based on incidents of abandonment & neglect reported to the RSPCA, between Jan 2025 and Dec 2025 and based on a typical 12-hour day
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Since getting the urgent care she needed, Nova’s strength has returned. She loves being outdoors with her best canine friend, Skye.
“She’s brought real happiness to my life”
Nova’s life changed for good when she was matched with new owner Libby by RSPCA Norfolk West Branch.
“We went on a few walks and my dog Skye and I just fell in love with her,” says Libby.
“When we first got her home, we gave her hydrotherapy and shorter walks to help her build up strength.
“Now my phone is packed with videos of her running with her tongue lolling out. She loves the beach, and was so excited when she first saw snow.
“Her transformation is just incredible. She fits in so well with our family.”
The RSPCA is one of only a few charities that can reach animals like Nova, rehabilitate them and give them the lives they deserve. Will you help us give back to the animals who need us most this winter?
Other ways to give back
Animals give us so much, even those who’ve suffered. You can pay back the love this winter in a way that suits you.
See the difference your donations make
Every time we rescue, rehabilitate and rehome an animal, it's a team effort. These three have started their new lives thanks to donations from our supporters.
