RSPCA appeal after emaciated dogs found in Little Clacton

A male and female lurcher were discovered by a walker on Thursday afternoon outside Hilltop Garden Centre, off Clacton Road, in Little Clacton. 

The brown male lurcher was found abandoned at the side of the road (Image: RSPCA) The man rushed the dogs to the vets for emergency treatment and reported the incident to the RSPCA due to their condition. 

Both dogs had their ribs and spine visibly on show and were given a bodily score rating of 1 out of 9 - with 4 being a healthy weight.  

If the man did not find the dogs they would not have survived much longer due to their condition says the charity. 

The black female lurcher was found on the side of the road (Image: RSPCA) Inspector Jen Wildman said: "These poor dogs were left in such a state and both were emaciated, have fleas and a bad skin condition. We believed that they were abandoned and it is so sad as they were clearly in urgent need of veterinary attention. 

"They are now in our care and are so friendly and lovely. We have them on a strict diet to help them 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 the road." 

The RSPCA have launched a dedicated cost of living hub to help outline and signpost the support and help out there for owners. 

Also there is now more than 200 pet food bank partnerships across the country to help owners struggling to afford paying for their pet. 

This incident comes after the animal welfare charity has launched its Join The Christmas Rescue which calls on the public for support to help save more animals in need ahead of the RSPCA's busy Christmas period. 

Anyone who recognises the dogs or saw anything suspicious in the area at the time to contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.