A BADLY injured dog found wandering in a North East town may have been used in illegal digging for badgers.

The RSPCA is appealing for help to find the owner of the Patterdale terrier-type dog found in Stanley, County Durham, with “appalling” injuries to his face and head.

The male adult dog had the soft tissue on the bottom half of his face torn off, an injury common with dogs used for the illegal “sport” which involves sending them down a sett in search of a badger.

He also had numerous old injuries including one which appeared to have been poorly stitched.

RSPCA inspector Trevor Walker said: “It seems obvious what this dog has been used for, in my opinion over a long period of time and most likely his whole life.

“The injuries to his face were appalling and veterinary evidence suggests they have gone untreated for anything up to three months.

“This dog has suffered a great deal. Who knows how many badgers have too.”

The dog followed two young people home in the Tweed Terrace area and the adult at the address called the RSPCA.

The dog has been treated and is now in RSPCA care.