RSPCA rescue dog with 'rotting ear'

The animal was found with horrific injuries at an address in Cheshire.

The Shar Pei was discovered with severe bite marks, and one of her ears hanging by a "thread", in the backyard of a property in the county, last Thursday.

The homeowner told investigation officers from the RSPCA that there was no way that the animal could have strayed into the yard where it was found, so it is believed that the dog was thrown over a wall.

The dog, who has been nicknamed 'Sunflower' after the famous Van Gogh painting of the same name, was rushed to emergency veterinary treatment.

Unfortunately, Sunflower's ear was so badly decomposed that it had to be removed as part of the surgery to treat her wounds.

Animal Welfare Officer, Steve Wickham, says there are several lines of inquiry the RSPCA are following as to how Sunflower got her injuries. One theory is that the owners do not know she is missing, strayed and was attacked by another animal, possibly an unfriendly dog. Other lines of investigation cover the possibility that she was stolen and used in illegal blood sports, or badger baiting.

Steve went on to say: "This looks like horrible, cruel and uncaring neglect. The vet confirms this lovely dog would have suffered deeply from her terrible untreated wounds, which we think were most likely caused by illegal dog fighting." 

Sunflower is currently making her recovery at Greater Manchester Animal Hospital and should make a full recovery, but be less one ear.

The RSPCA is appealing for anyone with information regarding Sunflower to contact them on their confidential helpline - 0300 1234 999