THE RSPCA has appealed for information after a skinny, dead rottweiler was found dumped under a sheet.

A member of the public found the dog on farmland near the Albion Restaurant and Bar in Ryhope, Sunderland, on Saturday. It was wrapped in a Christmas blanket with a holly and baubles pattern and covered with a blue tarpaulin and yellow washing line.

The RSPCA was contacted and is now trying to establish whether it was a pet that had passed away or was left there in a poor state.

Inspector Catherine Maddison said it was a distressing find. She added: "Sadly, the dog was already dead and was found near hedgerow on some farmland. The dog’s body was removed by the council but on inspection, it does look as though the poor rottweiler was quite underweight with slightly overgrown claws. The circumstances are very unclear at the moment so we are unsure if this dog was a pet who has sadly passed away or if the dog was left here in a poor state.This is why we are now appealing for information."

Anyone who saw anything in the area before 2.30pm on Saturday or with information is asked to call 0300-1238018.