The male black greyhound was found by a member of the public on Monday, April 20, lying down on a grass verge on Bank Top, Bedlington.

He was covered in blood and had had both ears entirely removed.

He also had pieces of black electrical tape stuck to his legs and on his back.

The member of the public took the dog, which was not microchipped or
wearing a collar, to Robson & Prescott Veterinary Centre in Morpeth
before contacting the RSPCA.

The dog is currently recovering at the vet surgery and receiving the vital treatment he needs.

Now the RSPCA is urging anyone who knows who the dog once belonged to,
or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, to get in touch as
soon as possible.

RSPCA inspector Ian Smith said: "This is an horrific and sickening act of cruelty.

"It is clear this dog's ears have been removed by a
sharp implement, which must have caused him unimaginable pain and
distress.

"Thankfully he was rescued early and taken to safety, else he easily
could have died.

"We just hope someone will now come forward with vital information to help us discover what happened.

"If anyone was in the area at the time and saw or heard anything
suspicious, or if anyone knows who this dog may once have belonged to,
we would urge them to contact us as soon as possible."

If anyone has any information they should contact the RSPCA National
Cruelty and Advice Line on 0300 123 4999 and ask to leave a message for
inspector Ian Smith.