WARNING graphic image: RSPCA appeal after man seen drowning dog in canal with his bare hands

A man was seen to drown a dog in a canal near Dukinfield with his bare hands - and now the RSPCA is appealing for information.

A dog walker came across the horrific scene at Peakforest Canal in Dukinfield on Friday (March 20) at about 10.30am and chased the man, but he fled.

When the good samaritan returned to the spot where the dog was he could see the dead body floating in the middle of the canal and alerted the RSPCA.

Inspectors Emma Dingley and Daniel Thomlinson were sent to investigate and managed to pull the body of the tan male Spaniel-type dog from the water.

The dog, who was not microchipped, was emaciated and had a bad skin condition.

He also had a number of tumours on his body.

Now the RSPCA are appealing for information to trace the man seen and hope someone may recognise the dog, who was aged about 10.

Emma said: “This was an absolutely disgusting and callous act.

"How anyone could do such a thing is beyond me.

“The poor pet must have been terrified and would have suffered greatly.

"It was also very upsetting for the witness who bravely chased the man he saw.

“The witness initially thought the man was trying to save his dog from the canal - so was horrified when he realised what he was actually doing. 

“We want to find the person who carried out this awful act and are appealing for anyone who may be able to help with our investigation to get in touch.”

The man is described as white, aged in his 30s or 40s, wearing dark clothes and he was bald or had very short hair. He ran off in the direction of Ashton Road.

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

During this difficult time the RSPCA's priority is always to help animals in need.

They are already experiencing strain on its centres and frontline due to Covid-19 and this will worsen in the weeks ahead.

To help the RSPCA to keep rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming though this challenging time,  please visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give or call the donation line on 0300 123 8181.

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