Swale council is appealing for information after five dogs were found having suffered “heinous neglect” in Iwade.

The council’s stray dog service said one of the five – a golden male Cockerpoo type – had to be put to sleep due to traumatic injuries, including two severely broken legs.

The service was called this morning by vets, who had treated the dogs after they were found straying down Old Ferry Road, Iwade, on Saturday August 19.

The council described the other dogs as follows:

“Red Setter: A young female with an unregistered chip who shows clear signs of being bred from. She's underweight and was running alive with parasites.

“Black Cockerpoo: Young unchipped male who is extremely matted and has a double eye infection. His eyes are weeping puss and he was covered in parasites.

“White & Chocolate Spaniel: Young unchipped male who is incredibly nervous and underweight. He was covered in fleas.

‘Each of these dogs has suffered heinous neglect...’

“White Terrier type: Young unchipped female who was so severely matted she had to be shaved by the vet. She had one of the worst flea burdens we've ever seen and is underweight.”

The surviving dogs have now received flea treatment and will be treated for worms in the coming days.

The service added: “Each of these dogs has suffered heinous neglect and we urge anyone with information on their owners or where they came from to come forward.

“There are numerous failings under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and if an owner comes forward but can't prove the dogs have been stolen or long-term missing, we will be seeking legal action.

“If you recognise these dogs or have any information, please contact SBC on 01795 417850.”