Last week we reported on the dreadful injuries a dog had caused to an elderly lady's leg, this week we have a horrendous case of human cruelty to a dog.

Who can fail to be moved by the sad photograph of Eric on page 5? This frail animal has hardly any fur left on his body, he is in a terrible state and yet our reporter and photographer both commented on how friendly he was, how desperate for attention and kindness.

The RSPCA say he responds well and shows no malice towards people - despite what he has been through. They say with time and care he will recover, though it could be many months.

The two cases highlight that there is no guarantee of good behaviour. A physically well treated animal can, for no apparent reason, 'turn' against its owner, never mind a passer-by.

And an abused animal can gently seek kindness even after the most horrible cruelty.

All we can do is treat animals with respect and kindness, remembering at all times that they are animals and should be kept under control.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.