THREE puppies just weeks old were found abandoned close to a pile of rubbish in a cardboard box in December.

The weeks-old spaniel puppies name Mary, Holly and Rudey were abandoned by a road between Royal Wotton Bassett and South Cerney on December 21. 

RSPCA animal rescue officer Freya Lamb said: “These poor puppies are all sadly underweight and suffering from ear mites. One of the dogs also has cherry eye which needs veterinary treatment. They are very nervous and scared and don't want to go near anyone.”

Salisbury Journal: Image RSPCAImage RSPCA (Image: RSPCA)

The puppies were taken to the RSPCA Oak & Furrows Wildlife Centre before being taken to the RSPCA Cheltenham and East Gloucestershire Branch.

The charity has been raising awareness of the terrible reality that is faced by pets that have been abandoned and neglected this festive season.

Salisbury Journal: Image RSPCAImage RSPCA (Image: RSPCA)

The charity has made a film entitled Heart which tells the story of an injured and abandoned dog who is helped to safety by an RSPCA rescuer before life is transformed through love and care.

The film comes after the RSPCA noted a 25 per cent increase in pets being abandoned. 

For more information about the film, visit Heart on YouTube 

To give information on the abandoned puppies, contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 1238018