The Scottish SPCA has appealed for information after a dog was abandoned in Lower Largo after apparently being ejected from a car on Sunday morning.
Society inspector Nicola Liddell hit out at the action, and said those responsible had no way of knowing the animal would not be killed.
She said a member of the public saw the female dalmatian being let out of a silver people carrier around 7.45am near the beach in the Temple area, and the vehicle drove away.
“It may be that it was the owner dumping their dog or it could even be that the dog had been stolen and whoever did so wanted to get rid of her,” she said.
“We believe she’s around six years old and it looks as though she has had pups in the past.
“We have a rough description of the vehicle but no make or registration number.
“They may be from outwith this area and drove somewhere where no one would recognise their car.
“Alternatively they may have chosen this location because they have local knowledge and knew they were leaving the dog where a dog walker was likely to find her.
“Whoever did this could not have known for certain that the dog would be taken in by someone.”
The dog is safe in the care of the SSPCA at its Edinburgh and Lothians centre, and Nicola said she is in good condition and should find a new home if no one comes forward.
Those with information are asked to call the SSPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.