A DOG who was left with a gaping neck wound after her owners failed to alter her too-tight collar is now brimming with good health.

Eight months have passed since Stourport-on-Severn beat bobby Jayne Hutton gave Hope - renamed Magic - a new home after weeks of suffering at the hands of Matthew Roberts and Sharon Clayton.

But the 42-year-old had no idea what the puppy had gone through when her other dog , Jess took a shine to her at the Danemere Petotel in Tibberton.

"We had a few problems with her to start with and she's still quite defensive," said PC Hutton.

"But we no longer have to walk her on a harness, although she's incredibly strong."

Embedded

The black Alsatian/Labrador cross was picked up by the RSPCA in Canterbury Road, Ronkswood, Worcester, last January after Roberts and Clayton claimed she was a stray they had found in their garden.

The eight-month-old puppy was treated for a six-inch long, half-inch deep gash, which had developed over a month, caused by the collar becoming embedded in her neck.

Days later, Roberts and Clayton, now of Maple Avenue, Tolladine, were exposed as the owners after neighbours came forward in response to an Evening News appeal.

Last week, they were both convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to the puppy.

"I can't believe anyone could mistreat her. She may be strong and very strong-willed, but she's totally loving," said PC Hutton.