A LOVING dog was found like ‘a walking skeleton’ after being intentionally thrown into the River Severn in Stourport.

A lurcher was rescued from the River Severn by a passer-by and had severe sarcoptic mange.

The dog was also so thin his bones were showing.

Worcestershire’s animal welfare officer Pip Griffin, who has named the dog River as a reminder of his lucky escape, said: “How anyone could be so cruel is mind-boggling.

Hereford Times: River after he was rescued. River after he was rescued. (Image: Worcestershire Regulatory Services.)

“River was like a walking skeleton, so emaciated and skinny that it broke my heart.

“He was intentionally thrown into the river which is despicable, and I am beyond words as to how anyone could mistreat a loyal, loving dog and then throw him in the dangerous water like a piece of rubbish.

“Please if you saw anything or recognise River, who had a piece of pink lead around his neck, help us to bring these awful people to justice.”

On the approach to Christmas, people are being urged to be cautious if they are thinking of buying a puppy as a present.

Pip added: “If you must go to a breeder check their credentials as some, not all, can be unscrupulous, forcing dogs to birth litter upon litter, sometimes they don’t even see daylight for years, just to make a fast buck.

Hereford Times: River was found like a 'walking skeleton'. River was found like a 'walking skeleton'. (Image: Worcestershire Regulatory Services.)

“This leads to people buying sickly pups and when they can’t afford the vet bills, casting them aside. There are also hundreds of dogs available in shelters and kennels which can help you choose the right pet for you and make sure you are the perfect owner for them. So why not give them a try?”

Anyone who has any information about River - or any other animal which has raised concerns, contact the dog warden service at 01905 822799.