TWO four-week-old puppies have been found abandoned in a cardboard box in Wick.

Wychavon District Council dog wardens discovered the puppies, both suffering from sarcoptic mange and worms, by a tree in the village, near Pershore.

The miniature breeds, which are small enough to fit in the palms of two hands, are believed to have been from a larger litter and wardens are now concerned for the welfare of any of the other animals.

"Puppies from this litter are likely to look the same and may display symptoms of mange such as swollen eyes, areas of pink skin and patchy fur," said warden Pip Singleton.

"If anyone has been given a puppy in the last three weeks matching this description they should take it to the vets."

She added: "If you have a dog that you cannot cope with the important thing is not to dump it. We can rehome it for you if needs be."

The puppies are now being treated for their illness and are due to be rehomed.