RSPCA joins appeal over lurchers

Two dogs have died in two weeks with a third rescued from the busy Gobowen roundabout on the Oswestry bypass.

Hector's Greyhound Rescue charity said the A5 had become a dumping ground for the dogs, often used for hare coursing and nightime 'lamping' for rabbits.

An RSPCA spokesman said that it was often left picking up the pieces when owners could no longer care for their pet.

"We rescue thousands of animals every year who have been cruelly abandoned – often left by the side of the road or even thrown out of windows of moving cars.

"It's not clear why many dogs are abandoned but it could be because owners are struggling to pay for them. We have also had dogs coming into our care with awful injuries consistent with being used in badger baiting or hare coursing.

"The RSPCA works closely with other agencies to tackle these awful blood sports and would urge anyone who is concerned that this illegal activity is taking place near them to report it."

The charity has a 24-hour cruelty line. Anyone who finds an abandoned dog or who has concerns for the welfare of a dog should also report their concerns by calling 0300 1234.

Hayley Bradley, of Hector's Greyhound Rescue, said two dogs were dumped on the roundabout two weeks ago. One died when it was hit by traffic.

"The other was rescued by a motorist and is now in the local authority dog pound to see if its owner will come forward," she said.

The previous week a lurcher died at the Shottaton crossroads.

"People must know what is going on, there is a sinister pattern emerging here of dogs being abandoned," she said.

The dog rescued after being abandoned on the A5 on Christmas eve, named Miles by the greyhound charity, is doing well, Hayley said.

"He has just has laser treatment for wounds to his legs. He still has a long way to go but he is being well looked after by lovely foster parents."