A VETS' surgery has been inundated with offers of help after two dogs were left to starve to death over Christmas in a stable on an allotments near Stanley.

The plight of the 17-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier and four-year-old Doberman horrified even hardened RSPCA inspectors who said it was 'cruelty of the worst kind.'

The Doberman perished but the bull terrier is now battling back to health at Wilson's Veterinary Surgery in Tenter Street, Bishop Auckland, where staff have named her Minnie.

She was found on Sunday, at the allotments in New Kyo, close to death and huddled into the lifeless body of her companion.

RSPCA inspectors fear the Doberman may have died during freezing conditions on Saturday night.

Readers of The Northern Echo, sister paper of The Advertiser, who saw a picture of the dog struggling to get to her feet have since taken her into their hearts, inundating the veterinary surgery with offers of a new home and money to help the pet on the road to recovery.

RSPCA Inspector Gavin Butterfield said he is overwhelmed by the response from the public.

He said: "I cannot believe the response we have had.

"It really seems to have pulled at people's heart strings and the vets have been inundated with calls about her.

"We have even found her a home. I would like to thank everyone for their help.''

Veterinary nurse Penny Blacklock has been looking after Minnie who is beginning to put on weight.

She said: "It was touch and go but she is doing a lot better. She can now stand up and support her own weight and she is eating small meals every hour. She is also on a drip.''

The RSPCA said a woman had been reported and interviewed in connection with the incident and a case file was being sent to head office in London, where a decision on prosecution would be taken