A dog was tied to a tree and cruelly abandoned in a Fife woodland.
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after the female lhasa apso was discovered in Kennoway Woods, near Leven.
The animal, which has since been named “Annie”, was found by a dog walker on July 2 and was said to have been in a poor physical state.
She was handed in to a local vet and is now said to be recovering in the care of the animal charity.
An investigation has now been launched in a bid to trace the person who tied Annie to the tree, with the Scottish SPCA’s senior inspector Steven Gray claiming that the dog was left in a great deal of pain.
“The wee soul was in an awful state with a terribly matted coat,” he said.
“Annie was unable to walk due to the matting on her legs and over grown claws.
“She was soaked in faecal matter and urine.
“The poor girl was also in season which was causing her tail to stick to her back legs due to blood and urine.
“Annie was sedated to allow the vet to remove the matting as it would have caused her a lot of pain.
“If anyone noticed any suspicious activity or has any information we urge you to get in touch.”
Anyone with information should contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.