A sick dog owner who is thought to have lobbed their unwanted pooch out of a car is being hunted.
The cocker spaniel - named Beethoven - was found with two broken bones in his leg and spinal damage.
He was spotted wondering around and struggling with a limp by a council dog team.
The poorly pooch was unable to put weight on three of his legs.
The team took him to the vets where the extent of the damage done was revealed.
Shockingly, they think the injuries were sustained some time ago.
Beethoven has been microchipped but wasn't registered so his owner cannot be traced.
He was found in the village of Hartlip, near Rainham, Kent, on Saturday (May 21).
Have you been affected by this story? Let us know at webnews@mirror.co.uk
The dog was monitored over the weekend before being taken to the Newnham Court Veterinary Hospital on Monday (May 23).
A Swale Borough Council Stray Dog Service spokesperson said: "After minimal improvement over the weekend, the kennels made the decision to take him for further investigation and the X-rays have left us speechless.
"The vets have said the injuries are comparable to being hit by, or being thrown out of a moving vehicle.
"He's got spinal damage, two fractures to his tibia and many other injuries which have been left to heal without treatment.
"The most shocking part? He hasn't sustained these injuries recently, he's just been left to suffer.
"Both ourselves and the kennels will be doing everything in our power to keep him comfortable until we have a clear path for his future."
Local resident Helen Art fumed: "Someone will know who has had this little dog, hoping he can be helped and have a comfortable life.
"Whoever harmed him and neglected him should be in prison."
Laurina Dennis added: "They should be chucked out of back of a car."
Maria Parker said: "Oh my God, the poor mite, I hope he realises not all humans are nasty pieces of...
"This makes me feel physically sick."
Jane Cook added: "Thank goodness he was found in time to have treatment and help him to be pain free.
"Whatever caused this poor boy to be suffering so badly needs to be dealt with.
"Thank you for helping this poor boy. Sending him gentle hugs."
A fundraiser to help pay for his vet bills has already raised over £1,200.
