A dog found in such a poor state he had maggots living in his paws is being nursed back to health in Norwich. 

The Tibetan terrier was discovered by a woman on land near the village of Bawdeswell in October.

Efforts to return the dog to his owners failed, and because of his poor health he was passed to Alys Wyatt who has more than a decade of experience in rescuing animals.

Norwich Evening News: Bonzo has had to have most of his teeth removed following being rescuedBonzo has had to have most of his teeth removed following being rescued (Image: Alys Wyatt)

She said the dog - named Bonzo, or Bo - was in the worst state she had ever encountered. 

“Bonzo has been severely neglected. When I went to collect him, it was unlike anything I’ve ever seen before.

“He was in such poor condition I thought the only option was going to be to put him asleep. But he is so loving and had the will to live, so we started his recovery journey,” said Alys, 35, who lives in NR3,  

Bo scored just one out of nine on the body condition chart used to assess dog health.

He has chronic dental and gum disease, and had an eye infection, long claws, matted fur and maggots living in his paws. 

Norwich Evening News: Bo will remain with Alys for the rest of his life now, so he can be shown the love and kindness he deserves Bo will remain with Alys for the rest of his life now, so he can be shown the love and kindness he deserves (Image: Alys Wyatt)

His rotting teeth had also led to respiratory infection. He has since had most of his teeth removed. 

"To add to it, Bo is almost blind and is totally deaf," she added.

Alys, who is currently unemployed so she can care for her rescued animals, said: “Bo will never leave me now; despite everything he has the most loving and kind disposition – it's impossible not to fall in love with him.   

“Old dogs and older animals in general often get overlooked but they have so much love to give.   

Norwich Evening News: Bo was in such bad condition that Alys is focussing on getting him to a good weight first Bo was in such bad condition that Alys is focussing on getting him to a good weight first (Image: Alys Wyatt)

“Allowing Bo to live out whatever time he has left without pain and without fear is so important and I will love every second I have with him.”  

Now, Alys is appealing for donations to help to pay for Bo’s rehabilitation.   

To donate to Bo’s rehabilitation, click here.