Dog had tumour the size of a football

A dog had to be put down after it was found in a Shropshire park with a tumour the size of a "football" and nails so long they were growing into his feet.

The black Labrador was found in a distressed state in The Common in Telford by a member of the public and RSPCA inspectors are trying to trace the owners.

The dog, believed to be between 12 and 14 years old, was found in the field on June 19 with the massive tumour on its back and nails growing into the pads of its feet.

After being discovered wandering through the park, in the centre of Donnington, the dog was taken to a vet for treatment but its condition was so severe it had to be put down.

Seeing the state of the dog , RSPCA chiefs are now trying to establish what may have happened to the Labrador.

RSPCA inspector Dave McCartney said: "This poor dog was in a very sad state and I'd like to hear from anyone who might know something about where he came from or who might have owned him."

The Labrador is the most popular dog in the country and has a life expectancy of 12 years.

Mr McCartney added that any information no matter how insignificant may help the RSPCA in their bid to trace the dog's owners.

Anyone with any details is urged to contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.