Four 'starved' abandoned puppies found dead

The RSPCA believes all four puppies found on Moor Road near Staindrop died of starvation

Four puppies found abandoned at the side of a country lane are believed to have starved to death.

The 12-week-old spaniel-type dogs were found dead, soaking wet and lying in grass on Moor Road near Staindrop, County Durham.

The male puppies were from the same litter and dumped 24 to 48 hours before they were discovered.

The RSPCA believes they are likely to have been abandoned by a breeder after falling ill and the charity is reminding people not buy puppies from "unscrupulous sellers" who have a "complete disregard for the dogs' welfare".

The puppies were discovered by members of the public at the weekend.

X-rays showed no obvious injuries, but the dogs were very thin and had visible diarrhoea.

None of them were microchipped or wearing a collar.

They were found at the side of the country lane by members of the public

Krissy Raine, the RSPCA inspector who is investigating the deaths, said: "It was a shocking and distressing sight for members of the public to come across tiny puppies who had been callously left like this.

"Adding a dog to your family is an exciting time and everyone wants to ensure they bring home a happy and healthy animal.

"But buying a puppy today is a minefield and unscrupulous sellers are cashing in on a culture where quick online sales makes it easy for them to exploit dogs and dupe the public, all to make a quick buck with complete disregard for the dogs' welfare."