THE VET who nursed a dog discovered with her muzzle taped so tight it bled has ended up giving the whippet a permanent home.

Shocking images of Clover’s injuries were released after she was rescued by the RSPCA.

The young dog was found in a horrific state, subdued and suffering in Great Coxwell, near Faringdon, in August.

She was rushed to a vet for emergency treatment for her appalling injuries and spent the next two months recovering from the trauma.

Now the RSPCA says Clover has been transformed into a confident, playful dog almost unrecognisable from the one picked up.

And Tanya, the vet who cared for her, fell so much in love with Clover that she took her as her own. She said: “It really is amazing how far she has come since she first arrived.

“She’s gone from a subdued, sad dog to a loving, loyal and warm girl that is so trusting of people – against all odds.

“She is even helping to grow the confidence of my other dog – also a rescue – and they have become the best of friends over the last few weeks.”

She said that Clover’s initial injuries were so horrific she needed round-the-clock care.

She added: “There were moments in her journey where the team and I really thought she might not make it, but I was determined to save her – and we did.

“The dedication and support that I had from my team while dealing with this tragic case of cruelty was out of this world and both Clover and I really cannot thank them enough.

“She is such a sweet dog and I still just don’t know how anyone could ever have done something like this to her.

“It’s one of the worst cruelty cases I have ever seen in my career yet even with wounds so deep you could see her bone she still somehow found the time and energy to play – and that shows you just what kind of dog she is.

“She might be scarred for life from this experience but we hope that in time all of her emotional wounds will be healed, and myself and my family will be by her side every step of the way.”

Members of the public were so moved by the initial images of Clover’s taped-up muzzle they donated more than £14,000 to aid her recover. The charity said any surplus would go to helping other dogs like Clover in its care.

The RSPCA said it has not yet arrested anyone in connection with Clover’s mistreatment and the investigation is ongoing.

RSPCA inspector Sharon Chrisp said: “Clover’s story is one of a true survivor and it touched so many people right across the country.

“We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who offered their help and support and who donated towards her amazing recovery – it has not been in vain and she now will get the life she truly deserves in a loving and very special new home.”