This letter from me to you, dear readers of the Independent, is my last hope, as I am soon going to be put down.

My name is Duke but believe me, my life has been anything but that of a duke! A very long time ago, I was roaming the streets trying to find something to fill my empty tummy when I was suddenly run over by a car and left moaning in pain in a corner for a couple of days. A lady who later noticed that I was injured took me to a vet and cared from me till I was well again. But she was a cat lover and once I was well, she asked a friend to keep me with her five other dogs. This lady is a very kind lady who loves dogs but had no place or time left for me and all she could offer me was a damp basement and some food everyday. I was left alone day and night in this damp, cold place but I lived for the few times my mummy would come and take me for a short walk. This happened once a week at first but these visits became fewer and fewer until she forgot all about me. I just waited and waited in vain. I could hear the other five dogs run about and play upstairs, enjoying themselves while I was all alone. I am a good boy, neutered and I eat whatever is given to me. My only fault is that I am not house-trained because nobody has ever taught me that!

Anyhow, to make an extremely long sad story short, my present mummy is moving to a flat now as she is getting on in years and has found a good home for all her dogs but apparently nobody wants me because I am not house-trained. I even heard her say that the only solution is to have me put down. I must be about nine years old by now... nine terrible lonely years. Can’t anyone out there please help me live the remaining years in a better way? I have done nothing to deserve being put down. I love people, company and walks but these were never meant for me.

If there is any kind hearted person who would like to give me a chance to live, please phone my present mummy.. she will be delighted and so would I! Her mobile number is 9988 9173.

Yours faithfully,

Duke