A ten-week-old puppy will need reconstructive surgery after its ear was hacked off with a pair of scissors.
Conker, a tan-coloured terrier, was handed in at a rescue centre with her right ear completely missing and the wound badly infected.
Vets at Wood Green Animal Shelter in Godmanchester, Cambs., said it was likely the ear was removed using a sharp instrument like a pair of scissors.
Shelley Brooker, head of animal welfare at the shelter, said Conker had suffered “horrific physical and emotion pain”.
She said: “We cannot imagine the horrendous pain and suffering Conker has endured in her very short life.
“Despite being put through such horrific physical and emotion pain, Conker still loves people and remains a very happy and playful puppy.
“We will do everything we can to ensure Conker makes a speedy recovery and gets the essential reconstructive surgery she needs before finding her the loving home she deserves.”
Conker was found in Chesterton, Cambs., on Sunday by a member of the public. Vets gave her a thorough check-up and medication to ease the pain in her ear.
She will stay with one of Wood Green’s dedicated foster carers while her infection clears and she is ready to undergo the essential reconstructive surgery.
The RSPCA is appealing for anyone who has any information about the incident to report it to them.
Richard Page, from independent pet shop Grumpy Pets – close to where the mutilated puppy was found, said: “I think everybody is going to have the same reaction.
“It’s absolutely horrific.”
Wood Green, which was founded in 1924, rehome thousands of dogs, cats, horses, goats, sheep, rabbits, hens, ferrets and other small animals every year.