AN animal charity has launched an appeal after a dog with links to Renfrewshire was abandoned on the North Coast 500 in the Highlands.

A white Staffie was brought to the Scottish SPCA Caithness and Sutherland rescue centre on Friday, August 7 and later on that day, a brindle Rottweiler cross was also 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.

It is understood that the Staffie, named Zero, is registered to an address in Linwood, with initial enquiries also pointing to connections in Johnstone.

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 Pollokshaws and Johnstone.

“We are keen to trace the owners of these dogs as soon as possible. If anyone recognises them, please contact our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”