A puppy was bashed and burned before being dumped in an Altona Meadows park.
The eight-week-old kelpie cross was found by a passer-by in a small park at the bottom of the 100 steps of Federation in Truganina Park about 7pm on Wednesday.
She was taken to an emergency vet in Point Cook but had to be euthanised on Thursday morning.
RSPCA senior inspector Daniel Bode said it was believed the puppy had been bashed several days before being dumped.
“The veterinary team fought to save the puppy’s life, providing pain relief and rehydration, but her condition continued to deteriorate,” he said.
“The extent of her injuries had already damaged her internal organs and would have affected her future growth.
“Her mouth was swollen and possibly fractured before she was burned and left for dead in the park.
“Clearly it is the intention of the offender or offenders to not only cause the death of this puppy, but to inflict pain and suffering as well.”
RSPCA inspectors are doorknocking the neighbourhood surrounding the area where the puppy was found.
Mr Bode urged anyone with information to come forward.
“There is no way this puppy suffered in silence and we are appealing to anyone who heard, saw or knows anything around the circumstances leading up to her death to come forward,” he said.
The woman who took the puppy to the vet said she was heartbroken.
“It’s also just distressing knowing that it was deliberate,” she said.
“It’s just harrowing.
“Just knowing that someone would do that … it’s sadistic, horrible stuff.”
People convicted of animal cruelty offences may be fined up to $75,600 and receive up to two years’ jail.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the RSPCA on 9224 2222 or make a report at rspcavic.org
