Shocking images of an exhausted dog being dragged behind a van as it was driven around an industrial estate have sparked an animal welfare investigation.
A member of the public took photos of the incident in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, on Tuesday evening, with the RSPCA calling it an appalling incident in which a dog had been subjected to an "awful ordeal".
The tan-coloured lurcher was spotted on a lead being held by a man sitting in the back of a white Transit-type van as it was driven in circuits around the Fenton Industrial Estate.
The man who witnessed the scene in Spedding Road at about 6.30pm and later reported the incident also described hearing laughter coming from the van's occupants, the RSPCA said.
Animal welfare officers have now launched a public appeal for information to trace those involved.
RSPCA inspector Charlotte Melvin said: "The caller told us he had seen the van circling the industrial estate three times with a dog being dragged behind, and that the people inside the vehicle were laughing.
"These roads are tarmac surfaces and I'd imagine the dog's feet would have been a painful mess after this awful ordeal.
"The back doors of the van were open and someone was sat in the back with the dog on a lead running behind. The dog looked exhausted.
She added: "I'd appeal to anyone who lives or works nearby to keep their eyes peeled and, if they see a similar incident, or if they know who may have been responsible, to call the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
"This is an appalling incident and I'd be interested to hear from anyone who might recognise the dog, the people or the van."
Press Association
