Appeal after two dogs abandoned on North Coast 500

An appeal has been launched after two dogs were abandoned on the North Coast 500 in the Highlands.

A Staffordshire bull terrier has been rescued in by the Scottish SPCA but a brindle Rottweiler cross has still not been traced.

The white Staffie was taken to the Caithness and Sutherland rescue centre on Friday and later on the brindle Rottweiler cross was spotted running free in the Laid area, a few miles from Durness.

Animal welfare experts do not believe he is dangerous but warned not to approach him because “he may react negatively” if scared.

Scottish SPCA senior inspector Andy Brown said “The staffie was handed in to our centre on Friday. He is very friendly and has a lovely nature.

“He has been made comfortable at the centre. He was found with his collar and lead still attached.

“The same day we received a call regarding an injured stray dog scared and frightened running in and out of the traffic on the busy single track road.

“The brindle rottweiler cross has been seen in the Laid area a few miles along from Durness. He also has his lead and collar still attached.

“He is lame and very scared. If people do see him, please do not approach him. We don’t believe he is dangerous but if he is cornered, he may react negatively due to fear.

“If anyone does see him, contact us immediately with the location details.

“From the staffie’s microchip, we found his name is Zero and is registered in the Linwood area near Paisley. Initial enquiries also point to connections in Pollockshaws and Johnstone.

“We are keen to trace the owners of these dogs as soon as possible.”

If you have any information, you can contact Scottish SPCA’s confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.