THE RSPCA is appealing for information after an emaciated dog with sores on his body was found tied to a tree in Radcliffe.

The dog, who has been named Murphy by rescuers, was found at around 7am on Sunday, April 3 in Hurst Wood near Clifton Country Park.

RSPCA inspector Jess Araujo, who is investigating for the animal welfare charity, said: “A member of the public spotted Murphy tied to a tree.

"They realised what an awful condition he was in and rushed him to a vet.

“It’s heartbreaking that there are irresponsible people who simply dump animals when they are no longer wanted.

The Bolton News: Murphy is hugely underweight Murphy is hugely underweight

“He is severely emaciated and with pressure sores on his hips and ankles, and a rash all over his body. He is so thin that his spine and ribs are visible.

“Whoever was supposed to be caring for Murphy failed him.

"They neglected him and starved him before abandoning him and simply walking away.

“We suspect he’s been kept squashed in a small cage where he did not have the space to move or turn around because of the nature and locations of his sores.

“Murphy is an entire male American bulldog cross, who is thought to be around one to two years old.

“He weighed just 16.6kg when he arrived, around 10kg under the weight he should be.

“He doesn’t have a microchip, so we’ve been unable to track down his owner.

The Bolton News: He weighed just 16.6kg He weighed just 16.6kg

“I am appealing for anyone with any information on Murphy and how he came to be abandoned to contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”

Murphy is being cared for by a veterinary team who are helping him gain weight.

Once his health has stabilised, he'll be taken to an RSPCA animal hospital for ongoing care and treatment before being found a loving new home.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care you can visit their website or call their donation line on 0300 123 8181.