In early July, in Southern Italy SOS Italian Setters we asked to deal with two heart-breaking discoveries, highlighting the plight of abandoned Setters in the region which becomes particularly bad during Summer. This is Matilde story thus far.

We discussed whether to show some of these shocking photographs but decided it was appropriate for many reasons, least of all we want you here prospective family to understand not only what she has been through in her young life but how ‘you’ bring so much joy to her.

In separate incidents, two girls were found in terrible conditions. Matilde is 4/5 years old, she was found on a construction site in Calabria, exhausted and desperate for water and food. Both cases show the urgent need for greater animal welfare efforts across Southern Italy.

What we do at SOS Italian Setters is a drop in the ocean, but if there wasn’t even this “drop” dogs like Matilde would be lost forever. She has already been seen by our vets. We owe our volunteers in Italy a huge thank you for everything they do at the ‘sharp’ end.

Matilde is in Calabria with Luana (a volunteer) and is positive to leishmaniasis. More information about leish can be found on our HEALTH ADVICE page, importantly with SOS Italian Setters you are never alone as you will have 24 hour contact with one of our volunteers who can assist you. Furthermore, both these contacts currently have rescue dogs with leish!

Have you been inspired?

Are you interested in providing the warmth and safety of a real loving adoptive or foster home for Matilde? If so please complete our online Adoption/Foster Application Questionnaire and submit.

Matilde is eagerly waiting to hear who her parents are to be!