By Rebecca Seales


Shot in the head: The collie puppy was rushed to the vets after being found by a walker, but had to be put down

Police were today hunting for a gunman who blasted a puppy in the face with a shotgun and left it to die.

The border collie was found by a walker after being shot in the head at point blank range and dumped on a mountainside.

Still alive, the puppy was taken to the vets, but later had to be put down after 60 pellets were found to be lodged in its skull.

X-ray: Vets found the dog had 60 pellets lodged in its skull after being shot in the head at close range

Now the RSPCA is trying to track down the gunman responsible for the barbaric act, which took place at the Fochriw mountain at Rhymney, South Wales.

Inspector Gary Lucas said: 'The dog did not die instantly from the shot, and was therefore left to suffer until he was found the same day by a dog walker.

'This was a horrific incident. Shooting the dog in the face in the first place is bad enough, but to then walk away and let it suffer until death is abominable.

'Dogs are our companions and should be treated with the care they deserve.

'Even if you are finding it hard to cope with caring for your animal due to changing personal circumstances etc, it is your duty to seek advice from an animal welfare organisation.'

The puppy was less than a year old and had been microchipped - but the RSPCA have not been able to trace its owner.

Inspector Lucas urged anyone with information on the possible owner to contact the RSPCA’s 24-hour national cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999.

He said: 'We need to find out what has happened to this poor dog and are relying heavily on the public’s knowledge.

'Any information could potentially prevent the person or persons responsible from mistreating another poor animal.'


source:dailymail