THE RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog was found in a "horrendous state", emaciated and with severely matted fur and tumours on its body.

The dog, a small terrier type, was found on Monday, January 20, at Mount Tabor in Halifax, near the Crossroads Inn.

The charity believes the dog was dumped there and are trying to trace her owners.

After being assessed by a vet the dog was put down due to her level of suffering.

RSPCA inspector Rebecca Goulding said: “It’s quite an isolated spot but locals would know it. She wasn’t fit to have walked there so it seems very likely that she was dumped.

“She was spotted by a member of the public who was passing by in a car at around 6.15pm so it was dark at the time.

“They took her to the vets where she was found to be so matted that it wasn’t until she was shaved that it was apparent whether she was male or female.

“She was emaciated, with a large tumour on her face and another the size of her head on her abdomen. She had bad teeth and her claws were also growing into her foot.

“Sadly, she was in such a horrendous state the vet decided the only thing they could do was put her to sleep to end her suffering.”

The dog, which wasn’t wearing a collar and tag - as is required by law - and wasn’t microchipped.

Rebecca added: “If anyone recognises this poor dog and can tell us who she belonged to, or saw anything that they think might help me to track them down, please call me.

“This dog was suffering a great deal. She was left outside, in the dark, exposed to the January elements, alone.”

Call the RSPCA’s inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018 if you have any information.