An urgent RSPCA appeal for information has been launched after an injured and underweight dog was found abandoned in a layby in Sheffield.
A member of the public sounded the alarm to the animal welfare charity after the female dog was discovered on Friday 28 April, on Leighton Road in the S14 area of the city.
Sadly, the brindle and white large bull type is very underweight and has injuries to her head and neck that appear to be consistent with burning, and the RSPCA is keen to find out what happened to her.
RSPCA inspector Jennie Ronksley said: “This poor dog was found abandoned alone in a layby in Sheffield.
“Her injuries, which seem to be a couple of weeks old, and are predominantly around her neck, are worryingly consistent with burning and appear to have gone untreated.
“We’re really eager to find out what happened here. Anyone with information is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
The dog was not microchipped and was not wearing an identification collar.
The abandonment comes at a time when the RSPCA is increasingly concerned about the impact of the cost of living crisis on pet owners.
In April this year alone, the RSPCA received 1,508 reports to its emergency line about an animal being abandoned. That compares with 1,370 abandonments for the same month last year – marking a dramatic rise of 9.6%.
The charity fears the cost of living crisis is leading to more owners abandoning their animals – but officers say there is “never an excuse” to dump an animal. The charity has launched a new cost-of-living hub to offer support to struggling owners.
Jennie added: “We know times are tough for pet owners right now – but there’s never an excuse to abandon an animal like this.
“We urge any owner struggling with the cost of living to reach out for help. The RSPCA has launched a new cost of living hub and dedicated helpline – available on 0300 123 0650 – to support owners at this difficult time.”
Should you wish to support the work of the RSPCA, you can donate online.
