A sick terrier has been found abandoned, tied to the railings of a veterinary centre.

Now the RSPCA, which is appealing for information, thinks the owner may have panicked when the dog became ill.

Tommy, an 11-year-old tri-colour Jack Russell, was found by staff at White Mill Veterinary Centre, in Ash Road, Sandwich, on Tuesday morning.

RSPCA Inspector Claire Carter, explained: “Staff found Tommy when they arrived for work.

“I’m concerned that someone is missing him somewhere or that an owner panicked because he was passing blood.

“He is otherwise in good condition, so I’m sure he’s been a well-cared for pet before."

Insp Carter explains that the dog’s coat is well trimmed, he is well fed and had been tied with a good quality collar and lead.

She said: “I’d like to appeal directly to the owner to get in touch.

"Tommy has clearly been well looked after and whoever left him may have done so because they didn’t know what else to do.

“I understand that sometimes it’s worrying when a pet becomes ill and perhaps his owner was concerned about how they were going to pay for vets’ bills.

"There is always help out there and that abandoning your pet is never okay" - RSPCA Inspector Claire Carter

"But I’d like to remind people that there is always help out there and that abandoning your pet is never okay.”

Tommy was microchipped but the phone number registered did not work and the address listed no longer exists.

The local dog warden had received no reports of missing dogs fitting his description.

In April 2016, it became a legal requirement to have dogs microchipped and registered details kept up to date.

Insp Carter said: “We’d urge all owners to get their pets microchipped.

“It means you’re much more likely to be reunited with them much more quickly if they go missing or get lost.”

Tommy is now being cared for by RSPCA staff and if his owner does not come forward to claim him, he will be rehomed.

If you have information concerning Tommy ring the inspector’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.