The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog was taken to a veterinary practice with paralysed back legs and a severe skin condition.

The male Jack Russell Terrier with a ginger-brown coloured smooth coat and was taken to a vet practice in Carnforth by a member of the public.

Sadly, despite the vet’s best efforts, the dog, thought to be around two, was so unwell he was put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further.

Sadly, despite the vet’s best efforts, the male Jack Russell dog, thought to be around two, was so unwell he was put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further. | RSPCA

placeholder image — Sadly, despite the vet’s best efforts, the male Jack Russell dog, thought to be around two, was so unwell he was put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further. | RSPCA

Appealing for information RSPCA Inspector Amy McIntosh said: “When he was seen by vets, this poor dog was reportedly very scared and showing signs of pain. He had a chronic skin issue caused by fleas, and appeared to have a very serious spinal issue which had caused paralysis of his back legs.

“He was in such a bad way that his prognosis was very poor, so the vets made the decision that the kindest thing was to put him to sleep.”

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He added: “I’m now keen to find out more about this dog. His microchip suggests he previously lived at an address in Over Kellet.

“Anyone who recognises the dog or who has information can contact me in complete confidence by calling our Inspector’s appeal line on 0300 1234 8018.”

Sadly, reports of animals being abandoned have sky-rocketed this year - with incidents raised with the RSPCA rising by more than 23 percent in the first 10 months of the year, ahead of a potentially “grim” winter for pets.

Up to the end of October, 24,270 incidents about an animal being abandoned or dumped had been raised with the charity's emergency line - up from 19,727 in the first 10 months of 2024.

It means - in the first 10 months of this year - an abandonment incident was reported to the RSPCA every nine minutes its emergency line was open.

And with charity rescuers braced for a further surge in reports over the Winter months, the RSPCA has launched an urgent appeal - The Big Give Back to Animals, in the hope of raising vital funds for its frontline officers.

You can make a donation here.