The RSPCA is investigating after two dead puppies were dumped by the roadside days apart.

The body of a golden and white cocker spaniel was found near Queendown Warren Nature Reserve in Warren Lane, Hartlip, last Friday.

Warning: further images may be distressing

And just four days later, on Tuesday, August 24, a tiny black and white puppy covered in flies was found dead on the roadside between Sittingbourne and Medway.

The pups are thought to be between six and eight-weeks-old.

Investigating RSPCA Inspector Rosie Russon said: “It appears they could be from the same litter and may well have been dumped after they died. Both bodies were covered in flies.

“I’m really concerned that there could be a litter of puppies somewhere who may be sick and need urgent veterinary treatment.”

The RSPCA is now appealing for any witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious in the area.

Rosie added: “I’d really like to hear from anyone who may have seen someone acting suspiciously at the nature reserve either on Tuesday or Friday, or who saw someone throwing something out of a vehicle or dumping the bodies on the roadside.

“Please call our appeal line on 0300 123 8018 if you have any information.”

The heartbreaking discovery comes as the RSPCA saw a rise of animal cruelty over the summer months with 245 reports of cruelty every day.