An emaciated dog was dumped at the roadside with her face covered in tumours and claws growing into her feet.
The helpless terrier-type dog was rescued by the RSPCA after being found on Mount Tabor in Halifax, Yorkshire - in what inspectors said was a "horrendous state".
She had been abandoned in the freezing cold, in an isolated spot on Monday - unable to move or walk.
Her fur was so matted, rescuers were unable to initially tell if she was make or female.
RSPCA inspector Rebecca Goulding said: “It’s quite an isolated spot but locals would know it.
“She wasn’t fit to have walked there so it seems very likely that she was dumped.
“She was spotted by a member of the public who was passing by in a car at around 6.15pm so it was dark at the time.
“They took her to the vets where she was found to be so matted that it wasn’t until she was shaved that it was apparent whether she was male or female.
“She was emaciated, with a large tumour on her face and another the size of her head on her abdomen. She had bad teeth and her claws were also growing into her foot.
“Sadly, she was in such a horrendous state the vet decided the only thing they could do was put her to sleep to end her suffering.”
She wasn’t wearing a collar and tag - as is required by law - and wasn’t microchipped so at the moment there is no way to trace her owner.
Rebecca said: “If anyone recognises this poor dog and can tell us who she belonged to, or saw anything that they think might help me to track them down, please call me.
“This dog was suffering a great deal. She was left outside, in the dark, exposed to the January elements, alone.”
The RSPCA’s inspector appeal line is 0300 123 8018.
