A DOG has been found dead after it was hanged from a tree in a Bradford park.

RSPCA inspectors were called to Brackenhill Park, off Hollingwood lane, on Thursday when a dog walker found the lifeless brindle and white pet hanging from a tree with three ropes tied together.

The animal charity believe it is aged between one and two-years-old, but was not micro-chipped, making the process of identifying the owner impossible.

LATEST: Charity offers reward for information over 'barbaric' dog killers

The dog was found was at the lower part of the park near to an industrial area, in a clearing in the woods where there was lots of rubbish, a burnt out BBQ and sofa cushions.

Inspector Sarah Bagley was asked to attend and described the ordeal as one of the most horrific she has come across in her career.

She said: "It's definitely one of the worst things I have seen.

"The sheer violent act of what has happened is unthinkable.

"We will be looking to prosecute whoever has done this for animal cruelty.

"We are investigating what has happened because there's very little doubt the animal has suffered."

A vet examined the animal and found it was in a good condition and had no other injuries.

Insp Bagley added: "The way it had been strung up was clearly intentional and there is no way the dog could have accidentally got into that position

It was a heavy dog over 25kg so would have very likely taken more than one person to lift and get into that position

Having been examined by X-ray the vet said the dog was definitely alive when hung and it’s neck was broken along with bruising around where the rope was attached."

Insp Bagley is appealing for anyone with information to contact the National Cruelty Line on 0300 1234999.

She added: "There's no microchip, so there's no evidence of who the dog belongs to.

"They might have stolen the dog, but without help from members of the public who recognise it, there's no way of finding out any more information.

"Anyone who might know who owns the dog or knows a dog matching the description should get in touch."