Badger baiting dog found in Dronfield with 'half her jaw missing'

The black Patterdale terrier was found by a member of the public along Horsley Gate Road at around 2pm on Wednesday, 23 September.

She isn't microchipped but was wearing a red collar with a locator on it when discovered.

It is believed the terrier, now named Grace, was being used for badger digging when she ran off or got lost.

RSPCA inspector Dan Bradshaw, who collected the Grace, said: “Her face is an absolute mess, practically half of her bottom jaw is missing. The injuries to her muzzle are horrendous and are typical of the injuries we see in dogs who have been used in badger baiting and digging."

He added: "We find small terrier-type dogs will be sent down into holes and setts to locate badgers, cornering them and alerting their handlers. The dogs often have radio transmitters attached to their collars so phone apps and GPS locators can be used to find them underground easily.

"The dogs will pin or hold the badgers in place while their owners dig down to them.

"The badger, which is clearly terrified and very distressed, will usually fight back and lunge at the dogs from below. Dogs used in this hideous pastime tend to have awful injuries to their bottom jaws, noses and faces, as well as their chests and front legs.

"The badger will then be dragged out by the hunters who will then set bigger, stronger dogs on them to fight or kill them. It's absolutely barbaric, for the badger and the dogs."

Dan says that Grace has ‘classic’ badger baiting injuries, with extensive bite marks around her nose and muzzle.

Her jaw is badly infected and she is receiving veterinary treatment and will have x-rays to establish the extent of her injuries.

“She's a friendly, old girl who deserves so much better but has clearly been used for some time for this hideous blood sport, with little regard for her health and welfare,” Dan added.

The RSPCA are now appealing for witnesses to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone who knows where Grace has come from or who her owners are should call the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

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