A STAFFIE cross dog had to be put down after being found bleeding and in a 'shocking condition' wandering a Bolton street.

RSPCA officers were alerted after a member of the public spotted the animal, which had a large lump on her stomach.

The growth was so large that it had started to drag on the floor, causing it to bleed.

She also had chronic eye issues and her nails had grown through her paw pads and out of the other side.

It is thought that the older dog could have been abandoned near to a field off West Meade, Great Lever, sometime before she was found at around 3pm on Sunday.

After being brought in by the RSPCA, vets were forced to make the heartbreaking decision to put her to sleep and end her suffering.

An investigation has since been launched by the animal protection charity and it is appealing for the public's help.

The Bolton News: Staffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officersStaffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officers

RSPCA inspector Kathryn Kellegher, who is leading the investigation, said: “This poor dog was in such a shocking state when she was picked up as a stray in West Meade in Bolton.

"Sadly, she had a lump on her stomach which was so large it had started to drag on the floor and she was bleeding all over the pavement.

"She also had such overgrown nails that they had curled and cut into her paw pads.

The Bolton News: Staffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officersStaffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officers

"It was distressing to see a dog in this poor state.

"I rushed her to the vets immediately but sadly, the vets had to put her to sleep to end her suffering.

The Bolton News: Staffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officersStaffie cross dog found in 'shocking condition' in Bolton by RSPCA officers

“If anyone recognises this dog or has any information about where she may have come from, please contact the inspectorate appeal line in strictest confidence on 0300 123 8018.”