An investigation has been launched after a dog was ‘deliberately abandoned’ by a lake last week.

Middlesbrough Council have confirmed they received a report of a dog found at Hemlington Lake in Middlesbrough on Friday (April 19).

The council also confirmed they were alerted by a member of the public.

The RSPCA is undertaking an investigation into the “deliberate abandonment” of the animal.

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A Middlesbrough Council spokesman said: “We were alerted by a member of the public on Friday (April 19) to a dog found at Hemlington Lake in Middlesbrough.

“The RSPCA is currently undertaking an investigation into the deliberate abandonment of the animal.”

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We’re aware of this incident and it’s being looked into. Unfortunately we are unable to discuss complaints about specific people and what action may have been taken.

"We understand how frustrating that is for animal lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future prosecution or could lead to us being fined.

“We’re so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare.”