A puppy found starving, flea-ridden, and dumped in a plastic bag has found a new home and is living a new, loving life.

Little terrier Wally had been found dumped in a bin in the Wallis Park area of Northfleet.

It is said a member of the public found the young pup cowering and bound in a plastic bag inside the waste container as they went to throw out their rubbish.

They got him out and took him to the Shrubbery Veterinary Clinic in Perry Street, Gravesend where he was found to be in a painful and maltreated condition.

The two-year-old pup was riddled with fleas and worms, was underweight, covered with urine and poo and was also suffering from a painful skin condition.

He was also found without a microchip – a legal requirement since 2016.

While immediately starting treatment for his condition the vets coined his name after Wallis Park – the area where he was found.

Staff at the vets treated his condition while phoning charity Animal Samaritans for help.

Libby Brown, a member of the organisation, said: “Normal protocol is to phone the RSPCA but because he was dumped there was no evidence to prosecute.

“We don’t normally deal with dogs as we don’t have a dog co-ordinator but in this instance, we agreed to cover the cost of his vet bills while a staff member at the vets fostered him.”

Coming into their care on August 12, Libby explained the young puppy’s physical condition.

She continued: “When he first came in, he was shook terrified, he wanted love but he would cower and scare away – he was also very skinny.

“I can’t comprehend what goes on in people’s minds when they leave them like this.

“I couldn’t imagine what he’s been through and unfortunately this is becoming more common.

“I just dread to think what would’ve happened if he wasn’t found.”

But slowly and surely little Wally was nursed back to health after getting treatment for his parasites and his skin condition.

There is a legal requirement to wait 28 days upon being handed in to allow any former owner the chance to retrieve him, but as none came forward Wally was handed to a friend of the charity to be looked after.

The final paperwork for his transfer is being worked out now this week but it seems his traumatic start to life is now over.

Libby added: “When dogs have these conditions it's usually an indicator of being used for breeding.

“He was likely stuck with very basic care with nothing but little water and food and was not cleaned out.

“Needless to say he is a spoilt puppy now.

“He’s such a friendly dog and not as shaky but you can tell he has been traumatised, but his new owner is experienced and is letting him get comfy and confident.

“He has life in his eyes and is now playing which is something he didn’t know how to do before.”

His vet bills have been estimated to be in the region of £700, adding to the £6,000 the charity has outstanding with the Shrubbery Clinic.

A fundraiser has been set up in the hope of paying for these bills as well as to allow them to continue their work in saving cats and other animals.

Donations can be made via the organisation’s website Animal Samaritans or through their Facebook page.