'Emaciated' dogs abandoned outside garden centre

The RSPCA said the lurchers were so skinny their ribs and spine were "visibly protruding"

Two emaciated dogs have been found abandoned at the side of a road, the RSPCA has said.

The male and female lurchers were discovered by a walker outside Hilltop Garden Centre in Little Clacton, Essex, at 14:40 GMT on Thursday.

He took them to a vet, who called the RSPCA because they were so underweight, had fleas and were suffering from a bad skin condition.

The charity, which has appealed for information as part of its investigation, said the dogs were recovering and gaining weight.

Both dogs are said to be recovering well and gaining weight

The RSPCA described the animals as "emaciated" when they were found, with their ribs and spines "visibly protruding".

Inspector Jen Wildman said: "Thankfully a walker found them and was able to help, otherwise I fear due to their poor condition they would have struggled to survive much longer.

"They are now in our care and are so friendly and lovely. We have them on a strict diet to help slowly build up their weight and help them recover.

"All animals deserve our kindness and respect but instead of love and care, these dogs were left to fend for themselves at the side of a road."

The number of abandoned animals rises during the festive period and the charity has just launched its Christmas Rescue campaign calling on the public for support.