A puppy that had been buried alive in a shallow grave with two black spears driven into its tiny body is recovering well.

A puppy that had been buried alive in a shallow grave with two black spears driven into its tiny body is recovering well.

Maureen Vida, veterinarian for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said yesterday the seven-week old pup, named Bernard, was making good progress.

She said the Border Collie cross was receiving physiotherapy since it was believed he suffered nerve damage to one of his front legs.

"His puncture wound has also been re-dressed," she said.

Bernard was found by a vagrant in Camps Drift, Pietermaritzburg, last week.

At the time police spokesman Inspector Joey Jeevan said the homeless man had been "scrambling around" when he heard the puppy's howls.

He spotted the puppy buried in a shallow grave and called the police.

Jeevan said the puppy was pierced by two black spears in the form of a cross and surrounded by a mirror, dead chicken candles and other items.

A case of cruelty to animals has been opened.

Vida said the SPCA had received many calls from people who wanted to adopt the puppy when he has recovered.

"But right now at night one of our staffers takes him home and brings him back in the morning," she said. - Sapa