A "distressing" children's drawing has been discovered alongside a box of dead puppies.

The handwritten note was found inside a shoebox which contained the five deceased dogs which had been "fly-tipped" in Cromwell Road, Sheerness, off the A249 Brielle Way.

It read: "We love Lily + her puppys [sic]"

Swale council's stray dog service is now appealing for anyone who recognises the doodle or blanket to come forward.

The breed is not known but the puppies appear to be only a few days old.

In an online post, it said: "This has been very distressing for all parties involved.

"Our warden is having to take a wellness break, so please be aware responses on social media may be few and far between.

"If anyone believes these maybe their pups, we do have a picture for reference."

It's understood the dead puppies may have only recently passed away as there were no signs of decay.

In an additional post the stray service said it believed the dogs were cared for by their owners but has slammed the method of disposal as "inexcusable".

"It caused untold stress to both the finders and our dog warden and is, by all definitions of the law, considered fly-tipping," it said.

"If you make the decision to breed your dog, you're responsible for their care and should make sure you have money set aside for all eventualities, including death."

They added: "We hope these beautiful souls are flying high above the rainbow bridge."

"Times are incredibly tough and our service will do what we can to support you..."

In a further update, the service stressed it was not judging the owner.

It went on: "From what we saw, the pups were clearly loved and the owner seems to have done what they thought was right at the time.

"If these were your pups and you need help with the mother dog, please reach out to us.

"Times are incredibly tough and our service will do what we can to support you."

The discovery divided opinion among those commenting on the post, which ranged from outrage to deep sympathy.

One said: "I’m appalled and have no sympathy or empathy for the people who have dumped these poor little souls."

While another posted: "My gut feeling is that this just wasn’t a thoughtless discard of puppies, possibly they were born dead prematurely, it’s clearly a loving gesture placing in a box with a blanket and a child’s picture message."

Numerous others expressed their gratitude to the dog warden.

"I wish your warden well. I can totally understanding their need for a break - so distressing," said a well-wisher.

If you have any information relating to this case, please call Swale council on 01795 417850 or email the warden at melissaherbert@swale.gov.uk.