An appeal for information has been launched after a dog was left battered and bloodied in a Mitcham road.

Police were called just after 9am on Thursday, November 1, after the Jack Russell was found with a head injury and broken ribs in Commonside West.

The dog was picked up by a member of the public, but died as a result of his injuries while on route to a nearby vet.

His body was seen by a vet who assessed that he had suffered blunt trauma, not consistent with injuries from being hit by a car.

The police and RSPCA are investigating the incident and are appealing for information.

RSPCA Inspector Mike Beaman said: “It is extremely heartbreaking to think what this poor dog has gone through and how much he would have suffered during his last moments.

“I am horrified to think of how this poor dog has suffered and myself and the police are investigating this incident. We would urge anyone who or saw anyone acting suspiciously in that area on that Thursday morning, to contact us immediately.

“I would like to thank everyone who tried to help this poor dog, especially the member of the public who found him and rushed him to the nearby vet. It must have been heartbreaking for them.”

Anyone with information concerning this incident should call police on 101 quoting CAD CAD2045/01NOV18 or Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.