PUPPIES dumped in a cardboard box by the roadside and left to die have been saved after a passer-by stumbled across them.

The three seven-week-old puppies are lucky to be alive after being dumped in a sealed box on a sweltering hot day at the side of the A44 near Evesham.

The labrador-collie cross pups were found on Saturday, July 2, and are now being cared for at the Dogs Trust in Wickhamford, near Evesham.

Pip Singleton, Wychavon dog warden, said: “This act of cruelty is beyond comprehension. The dogs did not deserve this.

“It was an extremely hot day, so they could have easily died a horrible death in that box. Thank goodness they were found in time.

“They have been taken to the vets with poorly tummies but are doing very well on antibiotics and should make a full recovery.”

The Dogs Trust will look after the puppies until they are old and well enough to be re-homed.

Chris Slight, rescue centre manager, said: “It is absolutely appalling that anyone could leave any dog, let alone such young puppies, in a sealed box.”

Anyone with information about the dogs being dumped is urged to call Mrs Singleton at the council on 01386 565000.

Anyone who is keen to offer the dogs a new home should call the Dogs Trust rehoming centre on 01386 830613.