Abandoned collie-type dog discovered after being dumped near Livingston football stadium

A “petrified” dog was found abandoned near a football stadium in Livingston alongside a crate and a bag of food.

A member of the public discovered the border collie-type dog cowering beside bushes near Almondvale Stadium, on May 10.

Police called to the scene were unable to approach and secure the “petrified” dog and the animal welfare charity was called in to help.

An animal rescue officer was eventually able to gain the dog’s trust and secure him safely to be taken to one of their animal rescue and rehoming centres.

A search of his microchip found that the details were outdated and no longer valid.

Items found with abandoned dog in Livingston SSPCA

A Scottish SPCA inspector said: “This is a stark and painful reminder that there is absolutely no excuse for abandoning an animal. There is help available, and abandonment should never be the answer.

“While the dog is microchipped, the details are outdated and no longer valid.

“He was left in an incredibly vulnerable state, both physically and emotionally.

“If anyone feels overwhelmed or unable to cope with their pet, we urge them to reach out.

“One call could mean the difference between safety and suffering.”

The charity is now appealing to the public for any information about the dog’s abandonment. If you recognise him or know anything about how he came to be left behind, please contact the Scottish SPCA’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

Last month The Scottish SPCA announced that they would be expanding their community support with the launch of Pet Aid community hubs.

The new Hubs bring the charity’s services and support into high streets and community centres across the country through ‘pop up’ events.

At each event, the public can get free health checks for their pets, access support for pet food, speak to an animal behaviourist, the adoption and fostering team, and more.

Scottish SPCA’s head of rehoming, fostering & community engagement, Jennie Macdonald, added: “We know that services like Pet Aid are providing a vital lifeline to thousands of people and their pets, and we are going much further in 2025 to bring this kind of early help and preventative support into communities across the country.

“No-one should have to choose between feeding themselves or their pet or struggling with their pets’ health or behaviour because they are frightened about having to give up their much-loved companion.

“We can already see that our community services are better for animal welfare and better for local communities. Expanding our community services, reaching more animals and people than ever, is also the best use of our supporters’ money – every penny we receive is donated by the public.

“We are pleased to be bringing more of these services into communities this year to help keep more pets and people together where they belong.”