RSPCA issues public appeal for help after collie puppy is left with fractured skull

Date published: 07 March 2023

The RSPCA is hoping that members of the public will come forward with information about the owner of a long-haired collie pup who was left with serious untreated injuries.

The black and white dog was found to have a ‘chronic, most likely traumatic, closed depressed skull fracture’ which is believed to have been non-accidental, according to the vet who examined him.

The person who owned him originally is thought to have lived in the Ings Lane area of Rochdale prior to November last year and the RSPCA is hoping that members of the public will come forward - anonymously if they wish - with information to help its investigation.

Only a puppy at the time - and not microchipped - he was then rehomed locally, but sadly went on to develop a number of serious health issues and he was eventually placed into the care of a specialist border collie charity.

Because of concerns that the puppy appeared unsteady on his back legs, various investigations and X-rays were then carried out. They revealed he had a fractured skull, a number of serious neurological issues and a break in his tail.

Because of the veterinary evidence, the case is being treated as suspicious, and the RSPCA is keen to hear from anyone who recognises the dog and can help them with their enquiries.

Inspector Adam Dickinson, who is investigating, said: “We’re very concerned that the injuries suffered by this young dog, in particular the chronic fracture to his skull, are thought to have been inflicted deliberately.

“Sadly, he was also found to have complex neurological issues - which adversely affected his behaviour - and these may have been related to the trauma he received to his head.

“We’re appealing to anyone who recognises him, who knows his original owner or has first-hand information about this dog’s background to get in touch with us, in confidence, as soon as possible.”

Despite receiving ongoing treatment and care from a fosterer at the border collie rescue, the young dog’s condition did not improve and he was sadly put to sleep recently on veterinary advice because of the extent of his ongoing health issues.

Anyone with information about him is urged to contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018.