THE RSPCA is appealing for people living at the eastern end of Sheppey to try to help end the suffering of a dog.

A Shar Pei dog was seen wandering loose in Warden Road, Eastchurch, on Friday, December 15. It is believed to have been illegally dumped.

The animal is thought to have a bleeding back caused by a skin irritation.

The RSPCA thinks the dog may have been dumped at the same time as two others who were abandoned five weeks previously in nearby Shellness.

They, too, were in a bad condition, also suffering with a skin irritation and overgrown claws.

If it was dumped at that time and has been living wild since, it may be difficult to catch, so the RSPCA is urging residents to put out food in a garage or shed to lure the dog in and trap it.

RSPCA Kent Chief Inspector Steve Dockery said: “If this dog was in a poor condition when it was dumped and has been living as a stray since, then it needs to be caught before it suffers any more.”

It is illegal to dump any animal in circumstances likely to cause suffering and can face prosecution and a prison sentence of up to six months.

Fortunately, the two that were rescued have now made a full recovery in RSPCA care and have been found new homes.

* Anyone who sees the dog or knows anything about who is dumping the animals is asked to contact the RSPCA on 0870 5555999.