TWO tiny terrier type dogs which were abandoned and left to die have been found near Shipston in a pitiful state.

The two small bitches appear to be between 18 months and two years old and have both had litters in the recent past.

They were found two days apart in the Willington/Burmington area and each has mange, sore paws and raw itchy skin with lesions and severe alopecia.

They are now in the care of The Animal House Rescue, based in Birmingham, and have been named Sybil and Sylvie.

Lisa Parkes, Stratford District Council's dog warden said: "One has a painful burst eyeball which will need removing when she is strong enough for surgery, neurological issues and is suffering with seizures. In addition, she has such poor muscle strength that she is unable to sit. Gravely ill, veterinary staff initially feared the worst.

"This has not happened overnight and I urge anyone with any information to come forward as a matter of urgency. If any of you have purchased terrier type puppies over the last year from around the Willington/Burmington area of Warwickshire, please get in touch with the district council's switchboard on 01789 267575. One can only imagine the horrors these sweethearts have been subjected to and there may well be more still living in those appalling conditions. This precious pair do not behave like dogs; they have been confined with untreated painful ailments, are severely malnourished and lack normal perception. Seemingly, they have experienced a very miserable existence indeed.

"Both girls are now in the best possible hands, under the wings of The Animal House Rescue. They are receiving vital, ongoing veterinary attention and heaps of tender, loving care. Given their current condition, it is tricky to identify their exact breeds. Despite their ordeal, both girls are gentle, affectionate and incredibly sweet-natured."

Veterinary treatment for Sybil and Sylvie promises to be costly so Lisa has set up a donation appeal which will be fun for kids to help with. Simply fill a 'Smarties' tube with 20 pence pieces and deliver to Stratford District Council HQ.

If you are local to Shipston you can drop any size of donations in any time at the town council building and it will be passed to the dog warden. Alternatively, donations can be made directly to The Animal House Rescue through PayPal in a link on their website: www.theanimalhouserescue.co.uk