A horrific discovery.
An investigation has been launched after a dog was found dead in south Dublin.
In a statement to JOE, the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) said it received a call on Monday afternoon from a member of the public alerting it to the body of a dog that had been dumped in a bin shed beside some apartments.
The animal charity states that the dog, a large tan male unneutered bull terrier type, was found "decapitated".
Its remains were taken to the DSPCA Shelter in Rathfarnham and examined by DSPCA Veterinary team.
The charity says it has, together with Gardaí at Clondalkin, launched a full investigation.
It also added that during its examination of the body, a microchip was found and that this will assist the inquiry.
The DSCPA states that a cause of death has not yet been identified but it is believed the animal had been dead for no more than two days.
“We know that the animal was not killed or decapitated at the place it was found and there is evidence that it was brought there in a vehicle and dragged a short distance to where it was dumped," a spokesperson for the charity said.
"We really need to find out what happened to this poor animal. It is a disgraceful way to treat any animal and the fact that its head is missing is even more disturbing.”
A Garda spokesperson confirmed to JOE that an investigation is currently underway.
"Gardaí are investigating a suspected incident of animal cruelty following the discovery of a dead dog on Coolveen Green, Clondalkin on Saturday, 26 March 2022," they said.
"No arrests have been made, investigations are ongoing."
The DSPCA is now urging the public to provide it with any details or information that may assist in the investigation.
Anyone with information can contact the DSPCA Inspectors at 01 4994727 or Clondalkin Garda Station.
