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Severely emaciated dog found dead

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The Scottish SPCA has appealed for information after a severely emaciated dog was found dead in Glasgow almost a third of its normal weight. Warning - the photos are likely to cause distress.

We have described the case as "one of the worst" we have ever investigated.

Local council workers alerted us to the appalling condition of the male collie cross when they arrived to remove its body from a housing scheme in Drumchapel on Tuesday (8 November).

The young dog, aged around a year old, was found behind a block of flats in Southdeen Avenue. It is thought his body had been dumped where it was discovered.

Senior Inspector Billy Linton said, "This is one of the worst cases of starvation we haveThe location the dog was found ever been involved in. The vet who examined the body was also very shocked and had never seen anything like it.

"A collie cross would normally be around 20kgs but this poor dog weighed only 7kgs.

"The dog had absolutely no muscle mass and appears to have starved to death.

"He also had very overgrown claws which would suggest he had not been outside for some time before he sadly died.

"We believe The tragic doghis body was dumped where it was found as he would have been incapable of walking due to his emaciated state.

"Local residents could not identify him or his owner so we are appealing for information and urging anyone who can help to come forward.

"This is an extremely serious case of neglect and we need to find the person responsible for causing this dog such horrific suffering.

"Animal lovers all over the country will be appalled at such sickening neglect and abuse of a defenceless animal.

"Anyone who recognises this dog and knows who might have owned him should call our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999. All calls are in the strictest confidence."

Causing an animal unnecessary suffering is an offence and anyone found guilty can face stiff penalties including up to 12 months in prison, a £20,000 fine or both. They can also be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

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