A pregnant dog abandoned in a sealed box has died, along with her puppies.

The Jack Russell terrier was found dumped on the roadside yesterday morning along Pluckley Road near Charing, Ashford.

Nearby residents took her in and arranged for a vet to quickly come and pick up the poorly pooch.

RSPCA inspector Clive Hopwood is now investigating, and he said: “This poor tan and white terrier was very pitiful and we were incredibly concerned about her welfare and that of her unborn puppies.

“She was found inside a brown International Packaging cardboard box, taped up with brown packing tape and with air holes punctured in the top.

“I rushed her to a local vet and they monitored her closely. She started giving birth to the puppies but was struggling so they decided to try a Caesarean.

"Sadly both puppies were dead and she didn’t come around from the anaesthetic. She was just so weak. It’s absolutely heartbreaking.”

Attempts are now being made to identify where she came from and the person responsible for her poor condition and abandoning her.

Clive added: “To leave this vulnerable bitch just hours away from giving birth in a box on a stranger’s driveway is just shocking.

"Had she had had earlier veterinary intervention she may well have pulled through and her puppies may well have survived.

“I’d like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area of Pluckley Road on Tuesday morning or who recognises this little dog. Please call us on 0300 123 8018.”

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

Read more: All the latest news from Ashford