Appeal after underweight dog tied to tree in Midlothian woodland found in freezing conditions
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after a dog was found abandoned and tied to a tree in secluded woodland in Mayfield, near Dalkeith.
The four-year-old Belgian Malinois cross, named Demon, was discovered next to a burnt-out vehicle in freezing conditions on Friday, February 13. A member of the public spotted the dog earlier in the day and returned later to find him still there before contacting the charity’s animal helpline.
An inspector attended and described the location as extremely remote, warning the dog may not have survived the cold if he had not been found. Demon was also severely underweight and was taken to a vet before being moved to the charity’s Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Balerno.
He is now gaining weight and staff say he has a friendly nature.
The dog was microchipped, allowing the charity to trace his previous owner, who said he had been rehomed in January 2025. Attempts to contact the new owner have so far been unsuccessful.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.