A dog who was cruelly dumped is looking for a new home after making a remarkable recovery.

The Scottish SPCA is looking for a special home for Betty, a two to three-year old female Bichon Frise who was found dumped at the side of the A70 Muirkirk to Douglas road in Ayrshire last October.

She was in a terrible condition, suffering from an untreated skin condition and with badly matted hair.

When Betty first arrived at the charity's Glasgow Rehoming Centre she was severely traumatised, unable to walk on a lead and very wary of humans – but despite all this she is still very good natured.

Staff quickly realised that Betty could not cope in the kennel environment. She would not even get out of her bed to relieve herself and the pads of her paws became ulcerated as she was not used to walking on hard surfaces.

Animal nurse Michelle MacDonald offered to foster Betty at home to help her learn to trust humans again.

Michelle said: "Betty has come a long way and enjoys a structured routine, which has helped her anticipate what to expect and how to react.

"She is still wary of people but once she knows she can trust you all she wants to do is please you, she's an incredibly affectionate wee dog.

"Betty is now house trained, loves walking on her lead, playing with soft toys and adores getting cuddles."

Although Betty's coat has been de-matted and her skin condition is vastly improved, she will require further veterinary treatment and her new owner will need to take this into consideration.

Anyone interested in offering Betty the home she needs should call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999999 and ask to be connected to the Glasgow Centre.

stef.lach@ eveningtimes.co.uk