Warning distressing images

RSPCA investigators are hunting the owner of a muzzled XL bully that was thrown to her death off a bridge just a week before a ban on the breed comes into force.

The black and white female dog is thought to have been thrown from the A57 flyover in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, at around 11am on Monday (January 22).

The dog was microchipped to a breeder in Wigan, Greater Manchester, but the new owners details were not registered.

RSPCA inspector Kristy Ludlam believes the dog was alive when she was thrown as she was found with blood around her mouth which is from the impact of the fall.

The Oldham Times: The XL bully believed to be thrown from a bridge on the A57 in Sheffield, South Yorks. Photo released January 24 2024. See SWNS story SWMRdog. A XL bully is believed to have been thrown to her death from a bridge in a 'sickening' attack. The

It comes just a week before a ban on the dogs come into affect.

She said: "From the injuries sustained and the location where she was found, it appears that the poor dog was thrown from the flyover and died due to blunt force trauma injuries as she hit the ground.

"She was found on a route well used by dog walkers and had not been dead very long."

The dog was microchipped to a breeder in Wigan, Greater Manchester, but the new owners details were not registered.

The Oldham Times: The XL bully believed to be thrown from a bridge on the A57 in Sheffield, South Yorks. Photo released January 24 2024. See SWNS story SWMRdog. A XL bully is believed to have been thrown to her death from a bridge in a 'sickening' attack. The

Inspector Ludlam is now asking anyone with information about the dog's 'sickening' death to come forward.

She said: "I am appealing to anyone who may have seen something suspicious before the time she was found on 22 January at 11am to get in touch.

"This is a very busy road so I am hoping someone may have seen something or may have dash cam footage which would help the investigation.

"If she has been thrown from the flyover to her death - this is a very callous and sickening act.

"I am hoping people may recognise the dog and provide me with names of possible culprits.

"Anyone with first hand information is urged to call the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 123 8018."

On December 31 last year, the government announced new legislation that requires XL bully dogs to be muzzled and kept on a lead in a public place.

The dogs' owners have until January 31 to apply for an exemption certificate and without this, their pets will be illegal to own.