A puppy is recovering after being found dumped in a dustbin.

Freezing cold, Dusty, a black and tan coloured crossbreed bitch about six weeks old, was facing death had it not been for a kind-hearted member of the public who heard her desperate yelps for help.

She was collected from the dustbin in Thornaby by Stockton animal welfare officers and taken to the National Canine Defence League (NCDL) in Darlington.

Although cold and distressed at the time, she is now making a very good recovery and staff at the centre will soon be looking for a new home for her.

Catherine Gillie, manager at the centre, said: "This was an extremely irresponsible, callous thing to do to a defenceless puppy. Dusty would have been cold and terrified, and would have surely died had she not been found in time.

"Sadly, cases such as these are all too familiar. Dusty is one of thousands of stray and abandoned dogs the NCDL care for and rehome every year.

"The main reason there are so many stray and unwanted dogs is unexpected litters, with puppies being thrown out once owners realise the hard work and responsibility involved in caring for them.

"Please prevent unwanted litters by having your dog neutered and stop other puppies suffering like Dusty."