Three mutilated dead dogs found at the side of a country road have sparked an investigation with a £5,000 reward.
The two mastiffs and bull dog were discovered with horrific injuries near the village of Cranfield, between Milton Keynes and Bedford.
They appeared to have been involved in dog fighting and found with cropped ears and filed teeth – practices often used in the illegal sport.
After they were taken to a nearby vet experts found all three with foreign microchips, which suggests they were imported to take part in fighting.
Two mastiffs and bull dog were discovered with horrific injuries near the village of Cranfield, between Milton Keynes and Bedford
Members of the League Against Cruel Sport campaign group were informed about the gruesome discovery and are now offering a £5,000 for information that leads to a conviction.
Chris Luffingham, director of campaigns, said: ‘We suspect these poor animals suffered serious physical and mental suffering while being torn apart in illegal dog fights.
‘We’re determined to expose and help prevent dog fighting in the UK and we are asking for people to contact out Animal Crimewatch team with any information on this dreadful incident.
‘Dogs involved in dog fighting suffer terrible injuries, both in the fights themselves and at the hands of their vicious owners. Most will die in the ring or soon after from their injuries.
‘Others that can no longer fight are often brutally dispatched.
They hounds appeared to have been involved in dog fighting and found with cropped ears and filed teeth – practices often used in the illegal sport
‘The League is determined to stamp out dog fighting in this country and we’re asking for the public’s help to achieve this.’
Clare Williams, who had the grisly task of picking up the corpses and taking them to a local vet said: ‘Members of the public need to be vigilant as dog fighting is happening all over the country and could be taking place near to you.
‘Report it immediately if you have any suspicions about dog fighting.’
A Bedfordshire Police spokesman added: ‘Anyone with information about the grisly discovery, which happened at about 11pm on Tuesday, should call 01483 361108 or email crimewatch@league.org.uk ‘
Dog fighting was banned in the UK in 1835, but two of the dogs found had cropped ears, a practice used to make them look more aggressive.
One of the dogs found in Cranfield had filed teeth, indicating that it was a ‘bait’ dog, one that is rendered harmless when used in sparring sessions with more powerful ones.
Members of the League Against Cruel Sport campaign group were informed about the gruesome discovery and are now offering a £5,000 for information that leads to a conviction