A dog was found in a "very poor condition" and in need of a "high-level of care".

The lost pet was discovered in Cambridge Road, Sittingbourne, with "significant" hair loss due to a long-standing flea infestation and other ailments, yesterday morning.

The dog, a female cross breed, was found by a member of the public at 8.20am and was later picked up by wardens from Swale council's stray dog service.

She did not have a collar and no microchip could be detected, despite the fact that they were made compulsory from April 2016.

The poorly pooch, who has been named Willow, has since received medical care at Borden Lane Vets.

Swale council is appealing for anyone with information to get in touch.

A spokesman said: "Willow is an elderly dog with significant hair loss due to a long-standing flea infestation, two tumours and very poor teeth.

"After being treated at Borden Lane Vets, she is now resting at a foster-based rescue who can offer her the high-level of care she needs."

He added: "We expect that Willow will make a successful recovery and urge anyone who has any information about her owners to contact us on 01795 417850."

It is not known how old Willow is, but she is believed to be between 12 and 15-years old.

Her plight has prompted an outpouring of sympathy on social media.

Commenting on the council's stray dog service Facebook page, one woman said: "Her face breaks my heart, she needed help for a few months by the looks of her. Hopefully she'll get the help she needs now." Another added: "Made me cry, poor baby. Thank goodness she's being loved now."

If you find a stray dog, the advice is to contact the council as soon as possible and it will arrange for it to be picked up.

Either call 01795 417850 during office hours or 07795 237479 between 5pm and 9pm weekdays and 9am to 9pm at weekends and bank holidays.

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

Read more: All the latest news from Sittingbourne