The Scottish SPCA is seeking the owner of an elderly dog found collapsed in Methil.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted after a taxi driver found the male golden retriever lying at the side of the road on Patterson Street, close to Wellesley Road, at around 3am on Tuesday.
The dog was taken to a nearby vet clinic where vets found his condition to be so advanced that the only humane option was to put him to sleep.
Inspector Sarah Gregory said: “The vet who examined the dog believes he was at least 12 years old or more.
“He had completely lost the use of his back legs due to severe and chronic arthritis and he was suffering from a very badly infected left ear.
“This dog may have strayed from home and then collapsed but we do also have to consider the possibility that he could have been abandoned, particularly as he had extremely limited mobility.
“He was a lovely, friendly old boy who had clearly been someone’s pet.”
She added: “We do appreciate that it can be very difficult for people to make the decision to take their elderly pets to the vet when their quality of life deteriorates and we know how costly vet treatment can be.
“However, all pet owners have a duty to ensure the welfare of their animals up to and including end of life care. Therefore we are keen to speak to this dog’s owner.”
Anyone who recognises the dog is being asked to call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.