The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog with 'major fur loss' was found abandoned.
The male Staffordshire bull terrier cross, approximately four years old, was discovered by a member of the public wandering around a cycle path near Aldi on Adcliffe Road, Lancaster.
The concerned individual reported the matter to the local authority dog warden, who took the pet into their care.
Given the 'poor condition' of the dog, the warden alerted the RSPCA for further investigation.
RSPCA inspector Amy McIntosh, who is investigating, said: "This poor dog was left in quite a state with a bad skin condition which has left him bald over most of his body.
"We believe he was abandoned and it is so sad as he was clearly in need of veterinary attention.
“Thankfully he was spotted wandering around and a member of the public alerted the dog warden to his plight.
"He is now in their care and said to be doing well and it is hoped once he has recovered he will be rehomed by them."
Inspector McIntosh is 'eager' to find the person responsible for abandoning the dog and is appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
She said: "He was microchipped and initial investigations suggest he lived in the Fleetwood area originally and moved to Cleveleys before he was found in Lancaster."
The incident coincides with the RSPCA's launch of their Join the Christmas Rescue initiative, which calls on the public for support to help save more animals in need ahead of the Christmas period.
The RSPCA has seen an increase in animals being abandoned and given into rescue centres due to the cost of living crisis.
In response, the charity has launched a dedicated cost-of-living hub with advice for struggling pet owners and more than 200 Pet Food Bank Partnerships across the country.
The RSPCA urges the public to act quickly when they find an animal in need.
If you find a dog you believe has been abandoned, please contact your local authority’s stray dog service.
Anyone who recognises the dog or saw anything suspicious in the area at the time he was abandoned on Monday, October 28, should contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
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