Dog-fighting horror

A PIT BULL terrier was found dead in Oldham with injuries that suggested it had been forced to fight another animal.

A member of the public called the RSPCA after finding it in two black bin liners in bushes in a field off Henshaw Street.

RSPCA inspector Susie Micallef said: “We don’t think it had been dead very long, perhaps a few days, and at the moment the cause of death is unknown. We are very concerned, given the external injuries sustained, that it has been used for fighting.”

The dog had puncture wounds, scratches and scrapes on its face, legs and body which appeared to be recent.

The dog was tan in colour with white markings on the chest, feet and the tip of the tail. It hadn’t been neutered, wasn’t wearing a collar or ID tag and had not been microchipped.

Insp Micallef added: “We want to hear from anyone who recognises the description and has any specific information that might help us trace his owner as soon as possible.

“Dog fighting is a barbaric sport, which has been banned in the UK for over 150 years. Unfortunately, it still continues in some sectors of society but where we find evidence of it we do everything we can to bring those responsible before the courts.”

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal carries a maximum sentence of six months in prison and/or £20,000 fine.

Pit bull terriers are banned in the UK under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 unless registered, neutered, muzzled in a public place, identified by tattoo and microchip and covered by third-party insurance.

Anyone who thinks they can help should call the RSPCA 24 hour cruelty line on 0300-1234 999 and ask to leave a message for Insp Micallef.