A STARVING dog dumped in the Upper Hunter has sparked a public appeal from welfare groups seeking its owner.
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The young pup was dumped at overnight kennels in Muswellbrook’s pound early on Friday morning.
The animal was in such a rough shape, staff at the pound immediately reached out to the RSPCA.
The inspector who arrived on scene dubbed the animal Hugo after staff were left stumped as to where it had lived before it was cast aside.
The animal was taken to a vet soon after it was discovered, such was the extent of its emaciated state.
The dog remains in care but is expected to fully recover.
RSPCA NSW inspector Russell Jarman said the organisation was investigating the case, despite the dog’s lack of identification.
“Someone in the Muswellbrook area must have some information or recognise this dog,” he said.
“I would also ask that if someone did find this dog as a stray, that they please come forward to advise where and when the dog was found to assist with our enquiries.”
Animal cruelty penalties can earn offenders a five-year imprisonment, a $22,000 fine or both.
Anyone with information can report it by calling 1300 278 358.