A GERMAN Shepherd dog was abandoned and left to starve.

The dog, named Solar by RSPCA staff, was found tied to a tree in woods near Wylam Street, Stanley, County Durham, by someone walking their dog.

Officials believe it had been there for at least four days before being discovered.

Solar is now being cared for at the RSPCA's Great Ayton animal rescue centre, near Middlesbrough, and was yesterday examined by vets.

Although thin and cold when found, the dog appeared uninjured.

RSPCA Inspector Graeme Foggin urged anyone who knew the identity of Solar's owner to contact him.

"This was a cruel and callous act - Solar was led out into woodland and then left for what could be up to four days," he said.

"She must have been hungry, cold and confused.

"Who could do something like that?"

An RSPCA spokeswoman said: "Solar has had a good meal, somewhere warm to sleep and a bit of TLC - which was just what she needed.

"People's circumstances change every day when they own pets, and if they decide they can no longer look after them we would urge them to contact us or another recognised animal charity."

Solar is not ready to be rehomed yet. Anyone with information about who abandoned her is asked to call the RSPCA on 08705 555 999 and leave a message for Insp Foggin.