TWO “severely starved” and “hyperthermic” puppies nearly died after being cruelly dumped in a Kidderminster park in freezing conditions.

Named Marks and Spencer, the puppies also had fleas, diarrhoea and puppy strangles - which is a rare skin condition which saw them have pustules over their bodies - when they were found. 

Worcestershire Regulatory Services’ animal welfare officer Pip Griffin said the duo’s suffering could have been avoided if the owners had just asked for help.

Pip fears that the pups got too much for the owners and thinks they may have bought them from breeders in poor condition, and rather than ask for help, just dumped them in the park.

She said: “All they had to do was pick up a phone and we could have helped them. We are not here to judge; we want to stop animals being dumped because people can’t cope anymore.

“And please remember there are unscrupulous breeders out there who want to make a quick buck by selling puppies which haven’t been looked after properly and are in need of medical help, care, and attention.

“After more than 20 years in this job I still cannot get over how cruel and callous people can be. So please, if you want a pet, go to the kennels or a rescue centre where, once approved, you can put the magic and sparkle into a dog’s life knowing they are vaccinated and healthy.”

Marks and Spencer, who were found just two weeks before Christmas, are currently in a foster home and are getting the medical care and love they need.

If you are concerned about the welfare of an animal or need help with your own pet, please contact the team on 01905 822799.