Appeal over 'terrified' cockapoos left tied to gate

The dogs are now being cared for at an emergency boarding facility after being checked by a vet

Four dogs found shivering, scared and with severely matted fur have been rescued by the RSPCA in Staffordshire.

The animals, all female cockapoos, were found tied to a gate in the middle of a quarry off Barley Green Lane in Alrewas by a cyclist last week.

The animal charity has launched an appeal for information.

RSPCA inspector Graeme Brookes said seeing them in such a condition was heartbreaking.

"They were cold, wet, shivering and very scared and had probably been left there in the early hours," he said.

"One of them was so terrified that she couldn't walk on a lead.

"I had to carry her to my van, and while she was in my arms, she locked eyes with me and wouldn't look away. When we arrived at the vet, she wouldn't leave me."

The dogs are now being cared for at an emergency boarding facility.

A passing cyclist found the dogs tied to a gate in Alrewas

Mr Brookes said their coats were extremely matted and contained a lot of sawdust, but they were in otherwise reasonable health.

However, their coats had to be shaved off, he added.

The dogs are about 10 months old, and although microchipped, the owner's details are out of date.

Members of the public with information should contact the charity.