An appeal has been launched to find out how the animal got there.

A dead boxer bulldog has been found weighted down in a Telford lake.

The RSPCA has issued an appeal after the grim discovery in Madeley.

The container which the dog was weighted down in. | Picture: RSPCA

placeholder image — The container which the dog was weighted down in. | Picture: RSPCA

It said the dog was found inside a carrier, weighted down with a brick.

The RSPCA said the upsetting discovery was made by a member of the public on Sunday morning - August 9.

They contacted the police and then subsequently alerted the RSPCA.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) John Groarke attended the location which was in the grounds of the currently empty Madeley Court Hotel - at Court Road and the body was found to be a female Boxer Bulldog cross type breed.

The lake where the dog was found. | Picture: RSPCA

“This was a very upsetting discovery for someone to make and we are concerned about how the dog’s body came to be in the pond,” he said.

“It appears a brick has been used to try and weigh down the body but it wasn’t enough as the large black carrier she was in was visible and spotted. There was also a red blanket inside the carrier.”

The RSPCA is now making enquiries to try and find out what happened.

“At this stage it’s difficult to tell when and how the dog died,” said John. “We don’t know if the dog was dead before she was put in the pond or not. But she doesn’t have any obvious injuries and trauma.

“The vet who examined her said she was bloated but this was gas and not water.”

The brindle and white dog was microchipped, but unfortunately enquiries have led to a dead end with no owner details are known.

“There is also no CCTV available,” said John. “What we were able to find out is that she was eight years old.

“This is clearly a suspicious situation and we’d urge anyone with first hand information to contact us via our Inspectorate’s appeal line number on 0300 123 8018 and you quote reference number 01875959.

“The area is a popular dog walking spot as a path passes the pond, so we are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to help with our enquiries."

The RSPCA is also reminding owners who may be struggling to seek help if they’re facing any problems with their pets, whether it’s seeking support from family or charities, getting advice from vets, or speaking to a behaviourist for support.

More advice for struggling families is available on the RSPCA’s Cost of Living Advice Hub.