A NEWBORN puppy has been found dumped in a shoebox at a well-known fly-tipping spot.

The RSPCA has launched an investigation after the distressing discovery was made by a member of the public in Seaham, County Durham.

They spotted the cardboard shoebox on the grass verge of a farm track off Seaton Lane at 8.30pm on Saturday.

They following morning they discovered the body of the female puppy, believed to be a Staffordshire bull terrier, lying beside the box with a towel which appeared to have blood stains on.

RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Helen Nedley, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was an extremely distressing discovery for the person who found this puppy.

“The box was a black and white Adidas shoebox and the black and white puppy appears to be just days old.

“He also had a wound on his shoulder, but this is possibly caused by a wild animal who may have sniffed out the body overnight.

“It’s unclear at the moment if the poor puppy was already dead when dumped, and also where the mother dog is.

"Being separated from her puppy could be very distressing for her, so am very keen to hear from anyone who has any information.

“This is quite a large puppy considering it is a newborn, so it’s likely to be a larger breed, perhaps a Staffordshire Bull Terrier or bigger.”

Anyone with information can contact the RCSPA in confidence on 0300-123-8018.