THIS PLAYFUL puppy was found abandoned suffering from a cruel condition which could have been prevented.

The 11-week-old Staffordshire cross stray was rescued by the Dogs Trust charity and now receives physiotherapy treatment to straighten her deformed legs.

Staff are looking for new owners who can continue her physiotherapy to recover from an extreme case of knuckling of the carpal joints – with costs supplemented by the Dogs Trust.

Amanda Sands, manager at Dogs Trust Leeds, based near Bramham, said the condition was caused by contraction of the tendons which prevented the animal’s wrist joint from extending fully.

Said Amanda: “Her front feet bend inwards because her tendons are too short.

“This is completely preventable if only she’d had the right love and care.

“We think she was removed from her mother too early and then abandoned.

“She has not had the right nutrition and a poor diet has meant her front legs are underdeveloped.”

Wonky is already improving. Staff are stretching her legs 30 times twice a day to strengthen the muscles.

“With the right treatment, she will hopefully be able to live a normal life. She’s very affectionate and friendly,” said Amanda.

“She’d make a lovely addition to a happy home. With a little love and care, her legs will improve and she will get a new lease of life.”

Amanda Francis, press officer at the Dogs Trust, said: “Usually, physical deformity is the result of unscrupulous breeders or the dogs haven’t been properly looked after. Most of the time it’s something that is completely preventable.”

To help Wonky, contact Dogs Trust Leeds Rehoming Centre at Woodlands Farm, York Road, Leeds, or phone 0113 281 4920.