AN appeal has been launched to trace the owners of a neglected and dying dog that was found in a Warrington garden.

RSPCA inspector Nadine Pengilly was called to St Katherine’s Way in Howley on Sunday after a neighbour spotted the dog collapsed in a garden.

The RSPCA was told that residents at the property had been providing temporary care for Roxy after they found her straying near a phone box in the street. But they were unable to afford the vet care needed.Inspector Pengilly found Roxy in pain and with a burst mammary tumour which was the size of a fist. She said the size of the wound was ‘overpowering’.Roxy, who was not microchipped, was rushed to RSPCA’s Great Manchester Animal Hospital but a vet found she was anaemic and had developed sepsis through her untreated wound.

The sad decision was made to put her to sleep to prevent further suffering.

The RSPCA was told that residents at the property had been providing temporary care for Roxy after they found her straying near a phone box in the street. But they were unable to afford the vet care needed.Inspector Pengilly found Roxy in pain and with a burst mammary tumour which was the size of a fist. She said the size of the wound was ‘overpowering’.Roxy, who was not microchipped, was rushed to RSPCA’s Great Manchester Animal Hospital but a vet found she was anaemic and had developed sepsis through her untreated wound.

The sad decision was made to put her to sleep to prevent further suffering.

Inspector Pengilly is now keen to trace the person who owned Roxy and left her without treatment.She said: “Poor Roxy was in a terrible state – the burst mammary gland left a gaping hole the size of a fist.

“The smell of infection was overwhelming and she was obviously in pain – it was heartbreaking to see.

“The person at the address where she was found said they came across her on their street about a week before and temporarily took her in – but couldn’t afford the vet treatment she needed.

“I am really keen to find the person who owned this poor dog and left her in this dying state with no help. I am hoping someone may recognise her and help with the investigation.

“There is never an excuse not to take a pet to a vet and there is help and support out there for people if needed.”

Anyone with information as to who owned the dog should call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

The RSPCA has recently opened a telephone helpline to support callers who are worried about the cost of living crisis – 0300 123 0650 – open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. The charity has also created a dedicated Cost of Living Hub with practical help and advice on our website.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.