A dead dog was found lying in the middle of a road in Carshalton after it was allegedly strangled.

The RSPCA is appealing for information following the incident in the area of Wellfield Gardens on January 18.

The young male dog, a large tan-coloured bull breed cross type, was discovered tied to a tree branch after it appeared to have been broken off a nearby tree.

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Teeth marks were also found on the branch while the dog’s lead was tied to it.

Examinations from a vet concluded the most likely cause of death was by strangulation.

The dog was not microchipped.

RSPCA chief inspector Nicole Broster said: “While at this stage we do not know what has happened to this poor dog, we are treating this as a suspicious death and urging anyone with any information to contact the RSPCA in confidence.

“This happened in a populated area, so we would appeal to anyone who may have seen or heard anyone acting suspiciously in the area.

“We would also be keen to trace the owner of the dog as well and would ask people to come forward with information.

“We would urge them to call the inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”