Content note: this story describes burns and animal cruelty.
Just before Christmas 2019, Samson, a four-year-old mastiff cross, was scalded with hot water. Then, for ten long days, nobody took him to a vet.
By the time the RSPCA reached him, his second-degree burns had become infected. He was in pain, and he needed help urgently.
Treatment in London
Samson was taken to the RSPCA’s hospital in London, where vets cleaned and treated his burns. Burns like his need regular dressing changes, pain relief and careful monitoring, and healing takes weeks.
Through all of it, Samson was gentle with the people caring for him.
Recovering at Blackberry Farm
Once he was well enough, Samson moved to the RSPCA Blackberry Farm Animal Centre in Buckinghamshire. There, staff continued his care while his skin healed and his fur slowly grew back. As he recovered, his loving, cuddly nature became clear.
A new family
In August 2020, Samson was adopted by Lee and Paul Bushaway in Baldock, Hertfordshire.
The dog who spent the run-up to one Christmas in agony now curls up in front of the TV with his family and naps at home on a soft blanket. He loves to cuddle, and he has settled in beautifully. By December 2021, he was looking forward to his second Christmas with the people who chose him.
From the worst Christmas to the best
Samson’s story is a reminder of how much a dog can forgive, and how much a family can change everything. From burns left untreated for ten days to a warm home and a Christmas tree, Samson finally got the life he deserved.
Story retold from public reporting. Credit: RSPCA / Lee Bushaway, via the Daily Mail.
Images in this article are illustrative recreations made for this story, not photographs of the dog.
