A dead dog found burned on a beach may have been alive when his skin was torched.

The charred body of the Jack Russell was discovered by a shocked passerby on the edge of the water at Preston Parade in Seasalter.

RSPCA officers are now investigating after its blackened remains were found at about 10am on Tuesday.

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The dog was male, young and possibly a black-and-white Jack Russell terrier.

RSPCA inspector Ellie Burt said: “There were clear signs this poor dog had been set on fire - either before or after his death.

“There was soot on his teeth, and he had charred, burnt-off skin. He also had a wound on his chest, and there had been some haemorrhaging on the exposed muscle where the skin had burnt off.

“The vet said there were signs it was possible that this dog could have been alive when the skin burned off, although this is far from certain.

"It is also possible that the wounds could indicate an injury just before death, and then he may have been set on fire to dispose of the body.

“Whichever the case, I am concerned about the welfare of this poor dog, and how he may have suffered before he died and urge anyone with any information at all to call us.

“There was little evidence of a fire nearby, or that the dog had been in the water and washed up, so I think it likely that he died elsewhere and then his body was dumped on the beach, by the sea.”

A local vet collected the dog, X-rayed the body and discovered that there was no chip.

Anyone with information should call 0300 123 8018.