THE RSPCA believes two puppies found abandoned in Essex may have come from an unlicensed puppy farm.

The young dogs – a female, brown and white Jack russell terrier and a male, grey and white whippet – were found in Hansells Mead, Roydon, near Harlow, on Monday morning (23 January).

A man took them in to get them out of the cold but contacted the RSPCA after realising the pair were very sick.

RSPCA animal collection officer (ACO) Joe White went along to collect the dogs, now named Hansel and Gretel.

“Both dogs were lethargic when they were found cowering beneath a car,” ACO White says.

“A neighbour first found the terrier and was knocking on doors in the area when they spoke to the gentleman who had later found the whippet.

“Both dogs had been found, around an hour apart, cowering underneath the same vehicle.

“The man took both dogs in to keep them safe but was worried for their wellbeing as they both had blood in their faeces and were unable to keep water down. He took them to a vet and alerted us.”

The pups – named after the Brothers Grimm fairytale – are thought to be between four and five-months-old.

“Both dogs are worryingly thin and are suffering from diarrhoea,” ACO White added. “It’s really sad that someone has taken the decision to dump these vulnerable dogs to fend for themselves on a busy road in the freezing cold weather instead of seeking help.

“We would like to hear from anyone who recognises these dogs or who may know where they’ve come from. Anyone who may be able to assist with our investigation should contact our inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

“We believe these puppies could have come from an unlicensed and unregulated puppy farm in the local area so would also be keen to hear from anyone who might know of such an operation.

“They could have been bred to sell as Christmas presents and failed to sell, or the dealers may have to decided to dump them once they fell ill instead of forking out cash on veterinary treatment to make them better.

“It’s disgusting to leave these poor, young dogs suffering instead of getting them the help they need.

“The RSPCA is working to tackle this underground dog trade in which breeders and dealers put money and profits ahead of the health and welfare of the animals, with sick puppies sold to unsuspecting members of the public for hundreds of pounds and often dying just days later.”

Hansel and Gretel are now receiving treatment in RSPCA care and will receive lots of TLC at a private boarding facility until they are fit enough and healthy enough to be rehomed.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care, and to support the winter Love Animals, Hate Cruelty campaign, please visit: www.rspca.org.uk/lovehate2016 or text LOVE to 87023 to donate £3.