One recent example of this was a dog left alone and unfed, reduced to eating the plaster off the wall. How can owners be reduced to this level of uncaring? Simply that under pressure, the dog becomes the least cared for member of the family.

Since time began, dogs have been abandoned, when it suited owners, and today is much the same. Unattended dogs become more desperate and dangerous as a result.

A recent horrific case of dog abuse concerns a man suspected of torturing his dogs. Althought havng 40 demented dogs on his premises may seem hard to take, it was only after some time that neighbors reported him. Further investigation uncovered the skulls of another 5 dead dogs.

With our conscience disturbed what can we do to stop these abuses? Simply by keeping a watch out in a situation which seems not quite right.

Watching for tell-tale signs is one way of finding out if an animal is suffering. If no one has been at home for a few days and you know there is a dog inside, then it is not hard to investigate a little, by ringing the doorbell and listening for an animal crying out.

All states have an animal abuse hot line you can call and they will respond. They take their jobs very seriously and will move heaven and earth to help an abused or abandoned dog.

Apart from phoning authorities, you could offer to care for a dog for short time and you will be supported with food to look after it. Many fundraisers raise money to help as well and you could become involved. The starting point is by keeping an eye out for a situation you think suspicious.