A Bonhill dog owner has said his family are distraught after their dead pet was found in a rubble sack, washed up on a beach.

Davie Murdoch told the Reporter his Jack Russell Buddy went missing from his home in Bonhill two weeks ago and was never seen again.

He said: “My two daughters were in love with him and they are distraught. He was part of the family.

“It’s not just the impact he will have on us. He was a great companion for my father-in-law since his wife died.

“He used to go into my mother-in-law’s handbag and look for treats.

“He was a normal family pet.”

Davie explained 10-year-old Buddy went missing after running out the front door when one of his daughters opened it. She had chased after him but to no avail.

“My daughter went looking for him right away and there was no sign of him anywhere”, he said.

“Volunteers from Harvey’s army have been trying to help find him and we covered every square inch looking for him until he was discovered in Rhu.”

A post on social media claimed Buddy may have been used as a bait dog, however, the SSPCA confirmed this was not the case.

Scottish SPCA Inspector Laura McIntyre said: “We can confirm we received a call regarding a dog found on a beach in the Helensburgh area yesterday (June 3).

“We understand there is currently speculation that the dog was used as bait however we can confirm there are no injuries that suggest this was the case.

“The dog has sadly been missing for a number of weeks and this is understandably a distressing time for the owner.”

Despite this, Davie encouraged pet owners to remain vigilant.

He said: “I know he wasn’t used as a bait dog but it’s still an act of cruelty that someone put him in the rubble bag and into the water.

“Someone has lifted him right away and the vet told us he was lifted with a purpose but we will never know what that was.”

The news has spurred an outcry of emotion from members of the public, with many commenting on the social media posts with their condolences.

Alison Aubrey commented: “RIP beautiful Buddy. It’s a cruel world we live in. Condolences to your family and fly high over the bridge wee guy.”

Nikki Ross posted: Heartbreaking. So sorry for your loss. I hope you find the people who done this to your handsome wee guy. Run free buddy.”

And Barbara Montgomerie posted: “So sad how could anyone harm an animal. Run free over Rainbow Bridge to the green fields and beyond. Thinking of his owners. So sad.”