half-starved dogs in separate incidents yesterday.

An emaciated Doberman that was locked in a pen on Curving Avenue for two months appeared to be recovering after treatment at a veterinary hospital, Government veterinarian Dr. Neil Burnie said.

At first, it looked like the dog, which was extremely anaemic and riddled with parasites, would have to be destroyed. But that was looking less likely by last night.

"He was keen to eat, and in fact ate a 12-ounce can of dog food immediately,'' Dr. Burnie said after he and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Insp. Louis Ray acted on a tip.

There were indications that the dog's owner could not afford to feed the Doberman named Butch, he said. "The tragedy is that he didn't admit this and didn't call the SPCA and ask for assistance.'' In a separate incident yesterday, a warrant was used to seize an Akita-type dog in Pembroke Parish that is also in the care of the SPCA, Dr. Burnie said.

It was emaciated and on a too-short leash, Dr. Burnie said.

"This was an unusual day to find two dogs in such condition in such a close period,'' he said.

About 100 cruelty cases a year were investigated, and about a dozen led to charges, he said.

NEARLY STARVED -- It appeared this Doberman would recover last night after being seized from his owner by the SPCA. Helping the dog are veterinarian Dr.

Martin Counsell (left) and assistant Mr. Vaughan Robinson.