A DOG and her six puppies are recovering after being abandoned at the back of allotments.

Thanks to the quick thinking of a member of the public and care received from officers on Stockton Borough Council's animal welfare team, the cross-bred bitch, known as Bramble, and her six one-week old puppies are doing well.

The mother was found on Monday behind allotments that back on to Sapphire Street, Port Clarence. Next to her, in a little box, were the puppies.

The dog, which is described as being a labrador-type cross, mostly black with a white chest, was not wearing a collar and had not been microchipped.

Animal welfare officers are appealing for anyone who knows who the owners are to get in touch.

At present, the bitch and puppies are being looked after by the Dogs Trust, at Sadberge, near Darlington.

Mark Berry, principal environmental health officer at Stockton council, said: "We suspect these dogs have purposely been abandoned and we are keen to find out who could carry out such a despicable act.

"There is no excuse for this course of action when there are various agencies like ourselves able to offer help. If owners are not found then, through the Dogs Trust, we will be looking for suitable homes."

Anyone with information that could lead to finding the owners is asked to contact (01642) 526576.

Anyone interested in rehoming any of the dogs can call (01325) 333114.