RSPCA appeal after puppy with 50 puncture wounds found dead in Halifax

Aged about eight-months-old, the black and white dog was found by a member of the public at Withens Road, Wainstalls on Monday (13 February) and taken to a veterinary practice in Halifax later that morning.

Due to the extent of his injuries, the RSPCA was contacted and the charity is now investigating the circumstances and appealing for people with information to come forward.

Around 50 puncture wounds were visible on the puppy’s body and he also had a large injury to one ear. It’s not known how long he had been deceased before he was found.

RSPCA inspector Demi Hodby said: “The pictures of this poor puppy are shocking and appalling, and we’d like to thank the caring member of the public for stopping to help with this very distressing incident.

“We don’t know how long the puppy may have been suffering in this terrible state before he was found and we are urgently appealing to anyone who may recognise this dog, or who was in the location and saw suspicious behaviour, to get in touch.

“At this stage we think he may have been dumped because his owner didn’t want to take him to a vet to get his injuries treated, although we think the more likely scenario is that he has been fighting deliberately with another dog.”

Anyone with information which can help the investigation is urged to contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018.

Dog fighting was outlawed in England in 1835 but sadly, still goes on today. The RSPCA is the country’s leading organisation in tackling the practice and officers from its undercover Special Operations Unit (SOU) investigate reports, rescue dogs and prosecute perpetrators.

Anyone with information about suspected dog-fighting should contact the charity’s 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.