YOU can help transform the lives of dogs like Rocky, pictured.

The West Highland Terrier has made fantastic strides since his owner died and he was rescued by animal charity the RSPCA.

He is currently based at The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home near Cambridge, where he is enjoying his environment and the chance to play and make new friends.

When RSPCA inspector Richard Carr arrived at the nine-year-old canine’s former home in Worcestershire, nothing could have prepared him for the heart-wrenching conditions he was about to face.

The stench of dog faeces hit him immediately, and the floors were caked in thick grime.

Rocky’s body was trapped in layers of filth and matting so severe, his breed was barely distinguishable.

His once-white fur had formed an impenetrable matt, tangled with dirt and faeces, leaving his skin red, inflamed and painfully sore.

Rocky was rushed to the vet for urgent care.

The full extent of his condition became clear - severe inflammation of his ears and skin, matting so dense it required sedation to remove, overgrown nails and restricted movement in his hind limbs.

Since being rescued, however, Rocky has made great progress.

Now enjoying fresh air and sunshine at CDCH, he is free to play and make new friends.

His spirit shines brighter every day, and his true, loving nature is slowly emerging.

Despite these strides, Rocky still requires regular medicated baths to soothe his inflamed skin, while his hind legs are undergoing further investigation.

He will also soon need a dental procedure to address plaque build-up and undergo neutering.

CDCH is appealing to the public to help Rocky on his path to a better life by donating to the charity.

A CDCH spokesperson said: “Every contribution, no matter the size, brings Rocky one step closer to a life free from pain and filled with the love he deserves.”

Richard said: “It’s great to see Rocky looking transformed thanks to the team caring for him at CDCH.

“As a charity, the RSPCA works tirelessly to help animals suffering from cruelty and neglect, and we’re all so proud of the work done by the teams at branches and centres to give those animals the second chance they deserve.”

To donate to CDCH, visit cotswoldsdogsandcatshome.org.uk/donate