Animal workers have been moved to tears after a dog was found starved and barely able to walk in Redditch.

The dog, which is thought to be a female staffie, was in an emaciated condition, suffering from anaemia, overgrown nails and covered in sores and scabs.

She was found by the Worcestershire Regulatory Services and has been named Piggly Wiggly.

Animal welfare officer at Worcestershire Regulatory Services, Pip Griffin, said: “We should be ashamed that this type of neglect and cruelty is still happening in our country.

“The state of Piggly Wiggly moved some of the most seasoned workers in animal care to tears.”

An appeal has now been launched to catch the criminals responsible with Redditch residents urged to come forward with information.

Piggly Wiggly has since been seen by a vet and placed in an experienced foster home for her long road to recovery.

Ms Griffin added: “I am absolutely sickened and I implore you to help us find the perpetrators of this heinous crime so they can be brought to justice and prosecuted for inflicting this immense suffering on another living creature.”

Anyone with information should contact Worcestershire’s Dog Warden Service on 01905 822799.