A TORTURED dog was found with knife wounds and covered in scars, the RSPCA said last night.

The six-month-old Staffordshire bull terrier was found wandering in Dawdon Close, Stockton, with a gash in its head.

When RSPCA officer Nick Jones arrived at the scene at about 10.30pm on Tuesday, January 4, he suspected the cut had been caused by a sharp implement.

The vet who examined the animal said an object similar to a Stanley knife had been used. The cut was so deep the dog’s skull had been scarred.

Marks were also found on the dog’s back, one of which was thought to have been caused by a knife and another scar was consistent with scalding.

In 2009, Teessside was ranked by the RSPCA as the sixth worst out of 60 regions for its record on animal welfare.

Inspector Jones said: “This poor dog has suffered tremendous pain and suffering but, despite this, she is very sweet-natured and friendly.

“She has become something of a star at the kennels where she has been looked after because of her happy nature.

“The vet is 99 per cent sure that her injuries were caused deliberately, describing the cut to her head as being of almost surgical precision.

“It is shocking to think that anyone would abuse and injure this lovely, trusting dog and we need to find out who is behind the attack.”

The dog has been named Ellie by kennel staff and is being cared for at an RSPCA animal centre in Great Ayton.

Most animals at the centre, which costs more than £1,200 a day to run, are victims of neglect and maltreatment by their previous owners. A spokeswoman said: “When they come to us often they are nervous of strangers. We spend weeks, sometimes months, looking after them, preparing them for a new life and a second chance.”

Anyone with information about Ellie’s injuries or where she came from is asked to contact the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300-123-4999.

Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum sixmonth prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.