RSPCA appeals for information after body of dog is found dumped in sports bag

The body of the female Cane Corso was discovered behind garages in Dartford, Kent

The RSPCA is appealing for information after the body of a Cane Corso was discovered inside a sports bag and dumped behind some garages in Dartford.

The four-year-old female dog was found in Kale Road, Erith on Wednesday (16 February) by a member of the local council.

She was found inside a grey sports bag and wrapped up in a black bin liner. The black large mastiff dog with a white patch on her chest also has cropped ears, an illegal procedure in England and Wales, and appears to have recently had puppies. She also wasn’t microchipped.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO)  Brian Milligan, who is now investigating, said: “This was a grim and terribly upsetting discovery by the local council who found this poor dog stuffed inside a sports bag. It is believed she had been dead for around 24 hours prior to being found.

“Her ears have been cropped and it appears like she had recently given birth to puppies so we’re also concerned about her puppies and their whereabouts.

“Her body doesn’t have any signs of injuries and the cause of death is currently unknown. We are therefore keen to find out what happened to her and to know if anyone saw anything in the area on Wednesday.”

The RSPCA is appealing for anyone with information which could help their investigations to please get in touch on the inspectorate appeal line, in strictest confidence, on 0300 123 8018.

Ear cropping is illegal in England and Wales, under Section 5 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. However, the practice is still legal in other parts of the world, such as the USA and some European countries, and there’s a fear that more and more dogs are being sent abroad for cropping, or being purchased and imported from overseas. 

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.