The body of a dog has been found dumped in a suitcase in woodland — prompting the RSPCA to launch an investigation.
The poor canine was discovered “hanging out” of the case in a woods near Swinton, Greater Manchester.
The deceased dog was an elderly female Boxer-cross, and was discovered by a member of the public at 2.30pm on Friday.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Jess Pierce, who is investigating, says the canine’s death is suspicious due to the way the body was disposed of – hidden in a suitcase in a quiet place.
The dog, who is not microchipped, also had an enlarged stomach and blood in the mouth but the cause of death is not known.
“It does look strange the way this poor dog has been left with her head protruding out of the suitcase in a remote location which raises suspicions as to how the pet died,” Jess told Manchester Evening News.
“It is horrible that a dog was left in this state the week before Christmas and we would like to trace her owners or anyone who might know how she came to be where she was found.”
Jess continued: “It may be that her owner couldn’t afford to take her to the vets or dispose of her body properly because of cost of living issues. But, if that was the case, then there is no need to take such a drastic course of action as there is help and advice available from the RSPCA and a number of other charities about veterinary costs and end-of-life decisions.”
The tragic case comes as the animal welfare charity revealed a shocking 25 percent increase in pet abandonments, which they believe is due to the cost of living crisis. The RSPCA is calling on the public to donate to its Christmas campaign to try to help more animals in desperate need.
The deceased canine had white and merle-coloured fur with a patch of grey around her face. Inside the black and grey checked suitcase, was a black jacket with a distinctive striped waist trim.
If anyone has information about the circumstances surrounding this Boxer dog’s death then they can ring the RSPCA appeals line number on 0800 123 8018.
