A dog weighing a tiny 13 kilos has been rescued after being discovered wandering the streets.

The male lurcher was found straying around Iwade Road in Newington, near Sittingbourne , yesterday.

Swale council's stray dog service said the lost pet was in an "awful condition" and was emaciated, "with his ribs, spine and hips all prominent".

He also did not have a microchip, despite the fact that they were made compulsory from April 2016.

The poorly pooch, who has been named Rufus and is thought to be about 18 months old, is undergoing treatment for parasites and a possible infection caused by fly strike.

A stray dog service spokesman said he had "one of the worst worm burdens" the service had ever seen.

Rufus has been moved to a foster-based rescue that will continue his care and rehome him when he is ready.

Swale council has thanked the person who contacted the authority upon finding Rufus.

A spokesman said: "We found the young, male lurcher straying in Newington yesterday after being contacted by a worried resident.

“Rufus is emaciated and his spine, ribs and hips are all clearly visible.

“Weighing just 13 kilos, he is being treated for parasites and a possible infection caused by fly strike at Tag Rescue in Margate.

“Rufus will be nursed back to health at his foster home before being available for adoption to his future forever home."

He added: "We want to thank the resident that contacted us about Rufus, we found him just in time.

"We encourage anybody who finds a stray dog to call us on 01795 417850 or 07795237479 out of hours so our team can help.”

The council advises people not to feed a dog while waiting for it to be collected.

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