THE shocking discovery of two dead dogs in a shallow grave in Oldbury has launched an RSPCA investigation.

A member of the public found the canines, which had suffered injuries to their legs and head, at the side of a canal in Birchfield Lane on Tuesday, May 2.

The dogs were partially buried about 15ft away from each other in bin bags and had injuries consistent with dogfighting.

RSPCA inspector Vicki Taylor said: “Both of the dogs, which were Staffie-type breeds, had swelling to their legs and puncture wounds around their jaw.

“We can’t say for certain how these injuries were received, however it does concern us that these are injuries which we see in dogs used to fight.

“On top of that, one of the dogs was underweight. It is clear that the dogs were not cared for well in life, and in death they have been discarded at the side of a canal.

“We are keen to find out who dumped the bodies there, so we are urging anyone who has any information at all to contact us in confidence.”

Animal fighting is banned under Section 8 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Some of the offences can be committed without a fight having taken place.

These include causing an animal fight to take place or attempting to do so, receiving money for admission, publicising a fight, training an animal to fight, taking part in a fight and being present at an animal fighting without lawful authority or reasonable excuse.

Anyone convicted for these offences can face a maximum sentence of six months in custody and an unlimited fine.

A court can also pass orders banning someone from keeping and owning dogs - potentially lifelong bans - as well as ordering the forfeiture of equipment and destruction orders on any dogs involved.

Anyone with information which could help the Oldbury investigation should call 0300 123 8018.