The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dead dog was found outside a pet grooming parlour in North London.
A note, which read “Please take care of our dog, we’ve tried to nurse him back to health” was found attached to the body of the brown coloured adult Staffordshire bull terrier who was left in a suitcase bag by the commercial premises on The Broadway in Mill Hill.
The canine was underweight and had been struggling with skin disease, which it is believed had caused him to scratch so much he had inflicted an injury on himself. It is believed the Staffie was deceased by the time he was left near the parlour where staff found him on the morning of Friday, November 22.
The RSPCA is investigating the death of the dog, who was microchipped to an address in Peterborough. Unfortunately, the details on the chip are incomplete, so the animal charity has been unable to trace what is likely to be one of the dog’s former owners.
RSPCA Inspector Mike Beaman said: “The poor dog was in a very poor condition when he was found. He was skinny and his hips were visible, while his skin was flaking across the back of body. He had scratched himself red raw and as a result his penis was prolapsed and bruised.
“He was probably dead by the time he was dumped outside these premises. His skin condition was so bad that it would easily have been noticeable, so any responsible owner should have sought vet treatment long before his health deteriorated further.
“We are appealing for anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in this area on the evening of Thursday, November 21 and early the following morning when the dog was found or someone may have seen a dog like this somewhere else.
“This is a very sad case and we know pet owners are struggling financially at this time of year particularly because of the cost of living crisis. But had veterinary help been sought then this dog may well still be alive. For the owners to seemingly dump his body in this way is appalling.”
Anyone with any information is asked to ring the RSPCA appeals line number on 0300 1238018, quoting incident number 01396821.
If pet owners are struggling to fund health care for their pets they can find lots of information on the RSPCA website. The animal charity also has dedicated cost of living support, including a telephone helpline on 0300 1230650 and an online hub, which has practical tips and advice, including details of pet food bank schemes.
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