The RSPCA is appealing for information after the body of a dog was found in a tied-up bag in a brook near Maidstone.

The dead Jack Russell terrier was found inside the large dog food bag, tied up with twine. It is thought she drowned after being dumped in the river alive.

The distressing sight was discovered by a passing dog walker between Lees Road and Benover Road in Yalding on Sunday.

Warning: distressing images below

The terrier was tricolour and was found inside a bag of ‘Arkwrights’’ dog food - which was green and white.

RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon said: “There were no obvious signs of injury on this poor animal, and she seemed to be in reasonable condition.

“It is possible she may have been alive when dumped in this bag in the river. If this is so, it would have been an incredibly distressing and horrific way for her to die.

“We urge anyone with any information at all about where this dog may have come from, and how she may have died, to call us, in strictest confidence, on 0300 123 8018.”

The RSPCA also released an appeal last month after a horse was found dumped in an emaciated state on the side of the road in Shoreham.

The horse did not have a chip and it was not known who his owner was. Sadly, due to his extremely poor condition, the horse put to sleep.

A blind dog was also found tied to a block of bricks in Maidstone.

The black and white springer spaniel, named Delphine, was found tied by a blue piece of nylon string at Hayle Place, near Cripple Street.

But she was given a reason to wag her tail again after being adopted by a new family.