Abandoned dog dies after being found in Doncaster collapsed and starving

The RSPCA is appealing for information after the collapsed dog was handed in to the RSPCA Doncaster branch in Bawtry.

The elderly dog, thought to have been more than 10 years old, was brought in by a member of the public.

The brindle mastiff dog, with white patches on his chest and a greying muzzle, was allegedly found in Kingsway, Stainforth on Tuesday.

RSPCA Inspector John Gibson said: “He could not use his legs, was severely dehydrated, and was emaciated.”

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He also had a kiwi fruit-sized growth on his front right leg which could have been as a result of cancer.

“Sadly, the vet decided the only option was to end his suffering and put him to sleep.

“He had been left too long in this state and I’d like to speak to anyone who may recognise him, or who might know where he came from.

“This dog could not walk, so it seems unlikely, impossible even, that he got to this location of his own accord.

“There can be no excusing abandoning a dog to fend for itself like that.

“All owners have a legal responsibility to meet the needs of the animals in their care, which includes providing veterinary attention when it’s needed, as it was in this case.

“The RSPCA always recommends people take out pet insurance to ensure that they’re never in a position where they can’t provide for their animal’s veterinary needs.”

The incident comes after the RSPCA in Doncaster confirmed they needed to take in more animals than ever before last year, due to animals being abandoned or neglected.

In 2015, 883 were accepted by the animal charity, which is an increase of 13 per cent on 2014 when some 784 animals were taken in.

In 2013, a total of 721 animals were brought to the RSPCA.

n Anyone with information about the dog should contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018.