RSPCA officials are appealing for information after a small dog was found strangled on a roadside in Kent.

The body of the Jack Russell terrier was discovered by a passer-by on the grass verge just outside the village of Minster, near Ramsgate.

RSPCA spokesperson Klare Kennett said: "It was an adult, female, wire-coated Jack Russell with a white coat and black markings.

"She was very bloated and had her tongue hanging out and a child’s skipping rope tied round the neck. It is almost certainly the cause of death."

The terrier had been on the verge for some time and it was starting to decompose when it was found.

It is not known who the owner is, or indeed if it was the owner who was responsible for its death.

Ms Kennett added: "Anyone with any information on who owns the dog and who killed should contact us.

"Sadly, sometimes people who cannot take care of their dogs have been known to strangle them instead of calling an animal welfare organisation."

Anyone who is in such a position is asked to call the RSPCA on 0870 5555999, which is also the number to call if you have information on the Jack Russell incident.