Horror as dead XL Bully found inside cage in canal with fears the dog was alive

26 June 2024 , 20:33

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The dead XL Bully was fished out the waters (Image: RSPCA)

A dead XL bully dog has been found inside a cage in a canal - amid fears the dog was alive when it was thrown in.

The RSPCA has launched an investigation after the adult male dog, aged between one and two years old, was found in the water on Crawford Street in Saltley, Birmingham, last Friday. The charity's officers were alerted to the scene by police and scanned the microchip of the dog, who was registered as 'puppy eight' with contact details for an address in West Bromwich.

The animal rescue charity stated that they couldn't dismiss the horrifying possibility that the dog was thrown into the canal alive and left to drown. Upon visiting the address linked to the microchip, RSPCA officers were met with shocked occupants who confirmed they had a litter of puppies which they had sold on, but did not have any contact details for the new owner.

The metal cage was seen floating in the canal (PA)

The body of the dog was found amid the rubbish of the canal (RSPCA)

RSPCA Inspector Laura Brewerton has initiated an investigation into the suspicious death of the dog. She expressed her concern, saying: "We currently don't know the circumstances around this dog's death but it's incredibly concerning that he was found shut inside this crate floating in the water and we can't rule out the possibility that he was thrown into the canal alive and left to drown, which is horrific."

She urged anyone with information about the incident or who recognises the dog to come forward, adding: "We're now investigating this heartbreaking incident and we'd urge anyone who recognises this dog or who saw anything suspicious in this area on Friday - or the days before - to get in touch with us. This can be done anonymously."

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Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation, can contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave a message quoting reference 1288402. Since February 1, owning an XL bully breed in England and Wales without an exemption certificate is a criminal offence.

Owners of these dogs must have their pets neutered, microchipped, and kept muzzled and on a lead in public, among other restrictions. In January, the RSPCA reported a series of 'heartbreaking' cases of animals being surrendered or abandoned following the Government's decision to ban the breed.

Charlie Jones