A 10-week-old puppy has been found tied to the gate of an RSPCA cattery near Maidstone.

The puppy, named Barnie by RSPCA staff, was discovered on Monday night outside the Linton Cattery in Stilebridge Lane, Linton.

He was taken to the Mote Park Veterinary Surgery in Northumberland Court, Maidstone. He was severely dehydrated and suffering from some disabilities.

He is currently receiving treatment and is soon to see a consultant. Linton Cattery manager Daphne Harris, whose staff found Barnie, said: "Staff who were leaving for the day felt the electronic gate dragging, and when they looked they were horrified to see it was a little puppy. If the vets tell us that it is best for Barnie to be put to sleep on welfare grounds then we will have to do that."

RSPCA West Kent chief inspector Steve Dockery said it was an offence to abandon an animal. He added: "There is no excuse. If someone can no longer cope with an animal they should ask for help, not just leave it tied up somewhere.

Anyone with any information about Barnie, who is believed to be a Sharpei breed of dog, is asked to call the RSPCA on 08705 555999.