THEY were found huddled together in a desperate attempt to stay warm after being dumped.

After being neglected by their owner, these bald and emaciated dogs were abandoned outside the RSPCA animal shelter in Ashley Heath, near Ringwood.

A member of staff found the two lurchers – now named Foxy and Beth – who were suffering from alopecia and had very little fur left on their bodies.

One of the animals had pressure sores and the other was so weak he could barely stand up.

RSPCA inspector Graham Hammond said: “These poor creatures were in a terrible state and were little more than skeletons covered in irritated skin when they were abandoned.

“It would have taken a prolonged period without adequate food and veterinary attention for these dogs to have got into such a poor state.

“Someone then tried to shirk their responsibility again by simply dumping them.

“We are very keen to trace the owner of these dogs and find out how they came to be in such a poor condition.

“I would urge anyone with information to contact the RSPCA so we can ensure there are no other animals in the household that are being left to suffer.”

The two dogs are being nursed back to health by RSPCA staff, who have nicknamed them Foxy and Beth.

The lurchers were found in bushes near the centre’s main entrance on January 27.

  • If you have any information that may help, ring the RSPCA cruelty and information line on 0300 1234 999.