A major hunt has been launched for the cruel dog-owner who dumped a gravely-ill puppy on a Pennine moorland.
Sadly the four-month-old Akita bitch had to be put to sleep after being found dumped at Ripponden.
Now the RSPCA have appealed to people who may be able to help track down those responsible.
The female pup was found hidden in undergrowth next to a road by Booth Wood Reservoir by passers-by who called the RSPCA for help when they heard her screaming out in pain.
Sadly when she was taken to the vets the puppy was found to be extremely ill and was put to sleep to prevent her suffering any further.
RSPCA Animal Collection Officer Sonny Aitken said: “It was heartbreaking.
“Every time we tried to pick the puppy up to take her to the vets she would scream out in pain.
“We would urge anyone who may recognise her, or knows where it came from or who may be responsible for this heartless act to contact us as soon as possible.”
The Akita is a dog that originated in northern Japan, although there is also a breed from the United States.
They are regarded as powerful and potentially aggressive dogs, although many are said to be very affectionate with the family in which it is raised.
RSPCA officers want to hear from anyone who may have been walking or driving along the A672 Oldham Road from Ripponden to Junction 22 of the M62, which runs past the reservoir, who may have seen or heard something.
Anyone with information about the dumped female Akita puppy should contact the RSPCA Inspector Line on 0300 123 8018.
