RSPCA rescues nine-year-old lurcher from unsanitary Kent property

The RSPCA has rescued a nine-year-old lurcher named Jude from a property in Kent that lacked electricity, clean water, and proper bedding. The rescue was classified as a ‘multi-animal rescue’ after inspectors found Jude alongside eight other dogs and several snakes in unsanitary conditions.

Since arriving at the Leybourne Animal Centre, Jude has undergone rehabilitation to learn basic behaviors such as walking on a leash, recognizing his name, and playing. Staff noted that due to his history of living in near-total darkness, he previously experienced intense fear and would often collapse when overwhelmed by stimulation.

Despite his progress, Jude has been awaiting adoption for over 400 days. Shelter staff are working to dispel misconceptions about the lurcher breed, noting that while they are sprinters, they do not require constant high-intensity exercise. The RSPCA reported that multi-animal incidents remain a significant challenge, with hundreds of such cases occurring across England and Wales.