The RSPCA is appealing for information after two dogs were found dumped in woods in Bradwell.The dogs were found on Monday afternoon tied to a tree near Whimbrel Drive.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after two dogs were found dumped in woods in Bradwell.

The dogs were found on Monday afternoon tied to a tree near Whimbrel Drive.

A member of the public found the pair and, after contacting the RSPCA, took them to a vet as the male dog was suffering from severe diarrhoea.

Upon examination, the vet found that the tan-coloured dog, aged between two and four years, was seriously ill and he had to be put to sleep to prevent him from suffering further. It is thought he may have been suffering from parvo virus.

The other dog, a female black and tan wire-haired cross-breed, seems to be healthy, but has a flea allergy. She is receiving treatment and will be kept in isolation for a few days in case she shows signs of parvo or any other illness. She is aged two to three years old.

Both dogs were wearing new leather collars and had new leads when they were found and vets think they had both been bathed recently.

RSPCA inspector Carrie O'Riordan said: “It is strange that these dogs had new collars and leads and had been reasonably well looked after.

“It could be that someone realised the male dog was sick and dumped them for that reason. It is made worse by knowing that this dog's death could have been prevented by regular vaccinations and the least he deserved was being taken to a vet when he became ill, not just tying to a tree and leaving him to suffer.

“There is help out there for people who cannot afford veterinary bills, so there is no excuse for what happened to these two dogs.”

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 03001234 999.