A pup found wandering near a beach "may not pull though" after contracting a deadly virus.

The French bulldog Chihuahua cross was found straying around The Leas, Sheerness Beach.

On Tuesday, Swale council's dog warden Mel Herbert confirmed that the male pooch was very ill, and his owners couldn't be traced as he hadn't been chipped.

Mel said: "This little pup took a turn for the worse yesterday and was rushed to the vets.

"The vets have confirmed our worst thoughts, that he has parvovirus and he may not pull through."

Parvovirus is a virus that mainly affects dogs. It is highly contagious and spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their faeces.

Mel continued: "Because of this, and the need to act quickly, he has been signed over to South East Dog Rescue who we can’t thank enough for acting so quickly along with the kennels being vigilant and noticing something was wrong.
"Please keep him in your thoughts and we hope for good news."

If you recognise the dog call 01795 417850. If you are calling after 5pm, call 07795 237479.