More than 70 ticks, ranging from tiny to large, have been removed from Paige, an 8-year-old Pekingese. She was found as a stray in Protea Dorp, Kleinmond in a severely neglected condition.

The Kleinmond Animal Welfare Society (KAWS) took the dog into its care after members of the public brought her to the organisation.

According to KAWS Paige’s skin was in very poor condition and was severely underweight, weighing just 5,6 kg.

She is currently being fed puppy food to help her regain weight as she begins her recovery.

The society believes Paige was neglected for an extended period before she was found.

Despite her condition Paige remained in high spirits, was still perky and actively sought attention.

“She should be spending her golden years feeling safe, loved and cared for,” the society said in a social media statement appealing for donations and support. “Instead, she now needs time, patience, medical attention and lots of love to help her recover.”

KAWS said cases such as Paige’s highlighted the need for greater public education about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

The organisation believes lack of knowledge about how to care for animals contributes to cases of neglect and was working on establishing an educational department to address the problem.

The department aimed to help people better understand animals’ needs and how to provide appropriate care.

In the meantime KAWS was appealing to the public to assist with donations to cover the treatment and essential supplies needed by animals in its care.

KAWS encouraged those unable to donate to share Paige’s story to help raise awareness and support her recovery.