The RSPCA is appealing for information after a dog found abandoned with a burst tumour in south Essex had to be put to sleep.

The female lurcher was found on Saturday (September 24) in Sycamore Close, Tilbury at around 4pm.

She was discovered straying in the area and suffering from an open wound on her stomach which was bleeding heavily.

Thankfully, a member of the public spotted her and contacted the RSPCA for help.

Inspector Chris McGreal collected the poor dog and took her to the RSPCA Finsbury Park Animal Hospital in London.

Vets discovered that her wound was a burst tumour which had become infected and become necrotic.

Thurrock Gazette: The female lurcher abandoned in Tilbury. Photo: RSPCAThe female lurcher abandoned in Tilbury. Photo: RSPCA (Image: RSPCA)

Sadly, vets decided the kindest thing to do was to put her to sleep to end her suffering.

Chris said: "This poor dog was in a very bad way when she was found.

"She was put on pain relief but despite the best efforts of the hospital the poor dog was still in an incredible amount of pain and the vets decided the kindest thing to do was to put her to sleep.

"We know a lot of people are struggling right now, but it is never acceptable to abandon any animal but especially when this poor dog was obviously in need of urgent veterinary attention.

"We are appealing for information to find out if anyone saw anything on Saturday or if anyone recognises this dog."

If you have any information please contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.