A dog covered in scars is desperately searching for a forever home, but so far he hasn’t received a single application.

Four-year-old Mars was found as a stray in December and has been residing at Birch Hill Dog Rescue ever since.

One of the shelter’s trustees, Tracy Cutler, told Newsweek: “Mars has numerous scars, particularly around his face, head, and hindquarters.

“We don’t know his full history. His injuries sadly suggest he may have been used for dog fighting or possibly badger baiting.”

The shelter based in Kidderminster, England, posted a photo of the Staffordshire terrier cross on Facebook, and it quickly gained attention, earning over 1,000 likes. The image shows Mars refusing to look at the camera, and an extract from the caption states that he “hasn’t had the slightest bit of interest.”

The heartbreaking photo of Mars refusing to look at the camera. | Facebook/birchhilldogrescue

“Despite thinking Mars could have possibly been used as a bait dog, he’s been fine around the dogs he’s met here,” it continues.

Cutler told Newsweek: “Despite everything he has been through, Mars is an incredibly sweet boy who likes to ‘smile’ at everyone he meets.”

However, he is struggling with the kennel environment. Studies have previously shown that dogs experience both acute and chronic stress when living in animal shelters.

Volunteers have noticed Mars often lying in his bed, suckling on his tail to the point where it becomes sore.

“We have ruled out pain, and this behavior appears to be a self-soothing response to stress, fear, and anticipation, likely linked to his past experiences,” Cutler said.

“Mars is currently on medication to help keep him calm, which helps to some extent, but what he truly needs is a home where he can fully relax and learn that whatever he was expected to do before is over.”

Mars sitting on a cushion and standing on a sofa. | Birch Hill Dog Rescue

The shelter is currently looking for a foster home, as they believe he will “truly flourish in a home environment.”

Cutler said: “He is a very forgiving dog and has been a pleasure to handle.

“He has been well-behaved for veterinary checks and his recent groom, which he thoroughly enjoyed and which helped him both look and feel better.”

Facebook Reacts

So far, the photo captioned “Why does nobody want me?” has received more than 100 comments since it was posted on January 8.

“[I] love him, he’s gorgeous and I hope he finds his forever loving, caring home soon—love him,” said one user.

Another wrote: “Come on, there must be someone who can see how beautiful Mars is. If I could, I would be proud to take him.”

“That dog needs a home and love,” said a third user.