A DOG has been rescued from the brink of death after being found on the side of a road.

The RSPCA is appealing for witnesses after a severely emaciated and malnourished dog was rescued from a stretch of road on the outskirts of Taunton.

The dog, who has since been named Gulliver, was found between Middlezoy and Burrowbridge on Monday, February 18, at around 2pm.

The pup was found by RSPCA animal welfare officer Alison Sparkes and was rushed to the West Hatch Animal Centre for emergency care.

She said: “He was death’s door, you could see every single bone poking out of his skin.

"It’s a miracle he was still alive.

"He also had a number of open, infected sores and injuries on the pressure points on his body, which he appears to have had for a long time.”

Gulliver has now been through lots of tests at the animal centre. Staff are trying to rehabilitate him and build up his weight and strength.

The animal rescue charity is now investigating how the dog ended up abandoned on the side of the road in the 'horrendous' state.

They are appealing for witnesses of anyone in the area who may have information about where he is from.

“He is much brighter and much happier now - he’s been transformed in such a short space of time," added Alison, “When I first saw him he had such a sad look on his face and was in such desperate need of help and attention. Now, he’s a different dog who is improving all the time.

“We hope someone out there will recognise him and be able to help our investigation. It’s unacceptable to allow a dog to get into a state like this, and it’s inexcusable to leave a dog with untreated injuries without seeking veterinary advice.”

The lurcher, who is light in colour with white paws,is thought to be around three-years-old and entire, wasn’t microchipped but had a red collar with a silver clasp, with a length of black rope attached.

People can get in touch through the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.