A DOG was found dumped inside a locked cage in Malvern with no water as part of a ‘dastardly deed’ by its owner.
The black and white collie cross was seen by a member of the public near a main road in the town on July 21.
The dog, who is about 16 to 18 months old and has been named Rupert, was then picked up by Worcestershire Regulatory Service.
And Pip Singleton, dog warden and animal welfare officer, said: “I dread to think how this could have ended for Rupert, had he got out of that cage so close to a main road. It just doesn’t bear thinking about.
“Why anyone would go to such a degree of trouble to dump their dog is really quite beyond me.
“You really have to question the mind set of these people when they are doing such a dastardly deed to a defenceless creature, the mind boggles.
“If you can’t cope with your animal anymore, please, please, please don’t just dump them, let us or another organisation help you.
“Luckily Rupert is now safe, well and free from harm, but the tables could quite easily have turned against this beautiful boy.”
An RSPCA spokeswoman added: “We are saddened to hear about the way poor Rupert has been treated by his previous owners.
“It is an offence against the Animal Welfare Act to abandon an animal in this manner and those found guilty can face a fine of up to £10,000 and up to six months in prison.”
Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal can contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.
