The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Queensland, Australia is investigating a potential case of animal abuse after a dog was found injured and tied to a tree, with mysterious marker drawings covering its body.
The dog was found in Tovey Park on Parklands Drive in Boronia Heights on Tuesday September 20, before being rescued by an RSPCA inspector.
An investigation has been opened but it remains to be determined who owned the dog and how it was injured and abandoned.
The dog suffered “puncture wounds to the neck” before being left tied to a tree with a short leash, with the RSPCA slamming the dog’s treatment.
“We need to see an end to this type of animal abandonment and neglect,” said RSPCA Queensland spokeswoman Emma Lagoon.
“It is absolutely not acceptable to leave an injured dog tied to a tree. As for the markings, it’s downright disrespectful.
The large tanned male Mastiff cross is now receiving veterinary care from the RSPCA.
“As you can imagine this poor dog is quite scared and is receiving all the care he needs at this time to hopefully get through his ordeal and make a full recovery,” Ms Lagoon said.
Concerned Queenslanders have expressed their anger over the dog’s treatment online after the RSPCA issued a plea for help in its investigation.
“Only someone who is sick in the head would do something like this, whoever it is needs to be locked down and mentally assessed, alarming that we have such a sick individual and don’t know who it is,” said Donna Carlyon on Facebook.
“It breaks my heart, there are horrible individuals walking among us,” said Dyan Francke.
There were also many offers to foster or adopt the dog.
“Does this lovely little furry baby have another chance at life?? I would love to give her all my heart and my home,” Tassha Lee Cross said.
Anyone with information about the dog, or who may have seen someone in the area with it, is asked to contact the RSPCA hotline on 1300 264 625.