A WOMAN was being questioned yesterday after two dogs were left to starve to death over Christmas in a stable on allotments in County Durham.

The plight of the four-year-old Dobermann, which died, and 17-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier horrified RSPCA inspectors, who described it as "cruelty of the worst kind".

The bull terrier is recovering at Wilson's veterinary surgery, in Tenter Street, Bishop Auckland.

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

RSPCA inspectors believe the Dobermann probably died during freezing conditions on Saturday night.

Readers of The Northern Echo, 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 was overwhelmed by the response from the public.

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

He said that it was because of the story in the newspaper that the RSPCA was able to catch up with the dogs' owner, who could face cruelty charges.

Veterinary nurse Penny Blacklock has been looking after the bull terrier.

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."

Anyone wanting to make a donation should send it to the local RSPCA at PO Box BR29, Bramley, Leeds. LS13 2XL