I've been sent the pictures of this deliberately drowned dog. To say they are heartbreaking is an understatement. PLEASE let this be a lesson to all owners NEVER to leave their dogs unattended, even in your own gardens.
"The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog was thrown into the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Accrington with a weighted-down rucksack tied to him.
The rough-haired terrier was found floating face-down under the bridge on Burnley Road (A678), near to Moorfield Way, Clayton Le Moors on Monday 2 August 2010.
RSPCA inspector Mandi Barr said: ?This poor little dog never stood a chance. Two carrier bags, tied together, had been used to attach a rock-stuffed rucksack to him. Whoever did this is a callous and cruel coward and we want to know who they are.?
A member of the public spotted the dog?s body and called Lancashire Police who rang the RSPCA. The dog was micro-chipped which lead the RSPCA to his owners.
?They had put him outside in the garden at around 7am that morning. Naturally they?re very upset about what?s happened,? said inspector Barr.
The dog was called ?Freddie? and was just 18-months old. He?s described as mostly black, with a white stomach and tan patches on his face and legs. The rucksack was purple with black straps and a red ?Head? logo on it.
Anyone who saw anything suspicious or has any information that could help should call the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 and ask to leave a message for inspector Barr.
Inspector Barr added: ?We don?t want them to get away with this. This dog has suffered an awful death and someone is responsible for that. Please, if you think you can help, call us.?