Three of four puppies found in a box of rubbish in south Essex have found new homes.

However, one of the six-week-old Jack Russell cross-breeds didn't make it as he was suffering from hypothermia.

Safe - three of the dumped dogs await their new owners Picture: DAVE HENDERSON

The pups were discovered in an alleyway at Tilbury on New Year's Eve.

Police officers took care of them until kennel owner Michael Knight from Gemini Kennels, Wickford, arrived.

Mr Knight said: "One of the dogs was very ill and was being kept in a plastic bag. Unfortunately he died a few days later.

"The other three have now found separate homes in South Woodham Ferrers, Southend and Basildon."

The dogs were covered in worms and mange when they were found and had literally been dumped as though they were part of the rubbish.

Mr Knight said it was the worst case of abandoned puppies he had ever seen.

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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