A dog which went missing for nearly a week returned home seriously injured after being scalded with hot fat.
Lia Hammond, from Mansfield in Nottinghamshire, said she was delighted to have her Jack Russell Pip home but was devastated to see his injuries.
The burns were so severe the dog needed surgery and the vet has said his fur may never completely recover.
Ms Hammond said she wanted to know who was responsible so other animals could be kept from harm.
Pip is now being given antibiotics, painkillers and needs cream applied to the burns twice a day.
RSPCA investigation
Ms Hammond said: "It is very cruel, it is out of order and I don't know how people can do this to a dog, I really don't.
"He is not a mean dog, he doesn't bite or growl, so why anyone would want to do this is a mystery.
"He went downhill for a time, he is still a bit scared of people but it seems physically at least he is on the mend."
The RSPCA said it was going to look into the case to see if it could trace those responsible.
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