New home sought for dog left tied up in graveyard

A dog that has spent most of her life tied to a tree in a Romanian graveyard is in need of a new home.

Lucia, a three-year-old German Shepherd, was found walking in endless circles around the tree on a 6ft chain. She had only an oil drum for shelter and frostbitten ears.

Rescued by Freedom Angels Romania (FAR dogs), she has been staying at kennels in Castle Easton, near Swindon, Wiltshire.

Katrina Wright from the charity - which also neuters dogs in Romania as well as bringing some to the UK - said Lucia's situation was "sadly not exceptional".

A Canadian woman who had been researching graveyards in Romania found the dog and contacted the charity.

When Lucia was unchained she continued to walk in circles and was afraid to walk on grass, said Ms Wright.

She said the dog's owner believed "he was doing a kindness" by taking it out of the village after others complained she was too noisy.

"He came every third day and fed her bones and bread. It wasn't a busy graveyard so she did literally live amongst the dead," said Ms Wright.

Volunteer Lorraine Fillary said Lucia was very friendly with humans: "The most trusting, affectionate girl with the kindest soul. It never fails to impress me how quickly these dogs forgive and forget.

"She's waiting to be someone's best friend," Ms Fillary added.

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