An inspector for the RSPCA has spoken of his heartbreak after the discovery of a group of abandoned dogs on a country road in north Norfolk.
It comes following an appeal from the RSPCA for information after the seven dogs were rescued in Syderstone , near Fakenham, on Monday October 15.
Five females and two males - believed to be either Newfoundland types or Newfoundland crosses - were found by concerned members of the public who managed to catch them and take them to nearby vets, The Grove Veterinary Group in Fakenham.
The dogs all had matted fur but were cleaned by the vets and kept warm and safe overnight.
They have since been transferred into the care of the dog warden, and may later be transferred into the care of the RSPCA.
RSPCA inspector, Dean Astillberry, is investigating the incident and visited the dogs on Tuesday October 16.
He said: 'Not in my 25 years as an inspector have I dealt with this number of large dogs being found in this way. These dogs are just so loving and affectionate and desperate for attention.
'It is heartbreaking to think that the most likely explanation for them being at this location is that they have been dumped.
'I am so grateful to all the members of the public who spent their time catching and looking for the dogs before taking them to the vet, it really is heartwarming to hear of so many animal lovers stepping in to help these poor dogs.'
Mr Astillberry believes that the dogs may have been used for breeding, and it is thought that one of the females had recently given birth as she was still producing milk. He added that he was concerned about the whereabouts and condition of her puppies.
'These are very large dogs and someone must know who their owner is,' he said. 'Someone must know of someone who keeps such a large number of dogs, and therefore we are either appealing for the owner to get in touch with us directly or anyone who has information.
'I just don't think these dogs have got loose on their own. It's such a rural location, it just doesn't seem plausible that they have escaped.'
Mr Astillberry said a large vehicle may have been used to move the dogs and that there may still be other dogs in the area, including a spaniel-type dog, which were reported as being seen at the time.
He urged members of the public to call the RSPCA or Norfolk police immediately if they see any loose dogs.
If anyone recognises the dogs or knows anything about who may own them, contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
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