THE RSPCA is appealing for information following the discovery of the body of a partially decapitated dog on the River Waveney in Suffolk.

David Green

THE RSPCA is appealing for information following the discovery of the body of a partially decapitated dog on the River Waveney in Suffolk.

The lurcher dog, which had its throat cut, was found by canoeists on the river between Mendham and the Norfolk border at Harleston.

An RSPCA spokeswoman said today that the discovery had been made on Sunday.

She added: “It is not known how the dog died but it was almost decapitated and may have been in the water for several days.

“It has been difficult to establish how the dog died because of the time spent in the water.

“It is possible the cut to the throat was made after death.”

The RSPCA is seeking help in establishing whether the dog was deliberately killed.

“Even if it was accidental there may be someone who has a dog missing,” the spokeswoman said.

The animal, which had a black leather collar but had no tag or microchip identification, was found with a black plastic bin liner around its head.

However, there was no evidence of this being tied on and the RSPCA has not discounted the possibility that it became attached while the body was in the water.

Any person found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal faces a jail sentence of up to six months and/or a fine of up to £20,000.

Anyone with information which could help explain the mystery surrounding the dog's death should call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.