A dog warden has been left with a “broken heart” after a stray puppy found underweight and in a poor condition died.

The nine-month-old cane corso, named Annie, was found in Teynham and had been under the care of the Swale council dog warden for the last two weeks.

She was found on Saturday, March 23, and had not been microchipped.

No one had come forward to claim Annie and after seven days warden Mel Herbert started looking for a shelter to house her.

At the time, the Mel said: “Whilst not emaciated, she's notably underweight and her eyes are sore and bloodshot.

“Most worryingly, she has a very abnormal gait. What a sad start to her formative years.”

After being seen by a vet, Annie was prescribed antibiotic eye drops for bilateral conjunctivitis on March 27.

However, those looking after her were concerned about her right back leg.

The vet believed Annie had a long-standing issue with her knee and said it had likely been that way for some time.

Annie was put on pain relief and there was a possibility the limb would have to be amputated.

On Tuesday, April 9, the pup woke up and was lethargic and off her food.

She had sickness and diarrhoea, so was rushed to the vets for tests which revealed she had gastroenteritis, the inflammation of the stomach/intestine.

Her symptoms worsened today which resulted in the decision being made to put the puppy to sleep.

A Swale council spokesman said: “We are devastated by the sad passing of Annie.

“She was diagnosed with gastroenteritis and after receiving supportive treatment from the vet her condition worsened.

“The vet advised that she was shutting down, her glucose levels were so low that the machine measuring them couldn’t get a reading and even with support, she began to show neurological deficits.

“So, after careful discussion with the vet, it was decided to let Annie go over the rainbow bridge.

“While this is a very sad end, her time with us was filled with nothing but love and kindness.

“We would like to thank the outpouring of support from the public and Swale Barn Vets in Faversham for the amazing treatment they offered.

“As well as TAG and Dogs Walk This Way Rescue for supporting us and providing funding for her treatment.”