A dog has been found dead in a shopping bag inside a salt bin.

The elderly female chihuahua was discovered alongside a tent bag, a dog bed, a small pizza crust, and a pair of men's jeans in Rochester.

Warning: graphic image below

The RSPCA was contacted after someone found the animal on December 12 in Baker Street, near the junction with Maidstone Road.

It is not yet known if she was dead or still alive when she was put in the bag.

RSPCA inspector Kirsten Ormerod said: “It is heartbreaking that this poor dog was placed in a bag inside a bin in this way.

“She was an elderly dog in poor condition, was underweight and had a prolapsed vagina – which would have been very painful without vet care.

“While we do not know if this poor girl was dead or still alive when she was put in the bag, it is concerning that there was evidence of food found in the bag with her along with a dog bed.

“I am following up on a number of lines of inquiry and doing what I can to find the owner of this poor dog. I would urge anyone with information which can help my investigation to call me in confidence on 0300 123 8018.”

The chihuahua was one of many cases of neglect and abandonment during Christmas time, and the animal welfare charity is urging people not to abandon their pets.

The RSPCA has seen a 25% rise in the number of abandonment incidents being dealt with by its rescue teams, with a 13% rise in neglect incidents.

Inspector Kirsten added: “Sadly, we’re starting to see the results of rising costs on pet owners. More animals are coming into our care, more animals are being abandoned, and fewer animals are being rehomed.

“This is why we have launched our appeal to help raise funds so we can keep helping animals – and we are urging the public to support us.”

They have also launched a Cost of Living Hub online with tips and advice for anyone who might be finding times hard.