A PUP left on the doorstep of a vet's surgery in Grays has sparked an investigation by the RSPCA after he failed to survive and was put down.

The tiny, sick pug puppy, estimated to be about six weeks old, was dumped at the Riverside Veterinary Group surgery of Southend in a plastic laundry basket left on the doorstep at lunchtime on 10 December.

RSPCA inspector Jen Wildman, now investigating, said: "This tiny little puppy was in a terrible condition. He was emaciated, weak and had a ruptured eye.

"Veterinary staff took him home with them to provide round-the-clock care but, sadly, he deteriorated and they felt the only option was to put him to sleep to end his suffering.

"CCTV cameras at the practice recorded stills of the moment a young man with dark hair wearing a grey jumper left the little pup on the doorstep. Mr Buggles, as he was immediately called by the staff, was left in a filthy washing basket with a dish of food and one of milk."

The charity is now investigating and would like to speak to the man to find out where Mr Buggles came from.

Jen added: "He was only six-weeks-old so my concern is that there could be a mother dog and other puppies who may be in a similar condition and need urgent veterinary treatment. Anyone with information about Mr Buggles or who recognises this man should contact our appeal line on 0300 123 8018."

Unfortunately, many breeds of dogs can suffer from severe health problems caused by the way they've been bred to have exaggerated features, such as large eyes and flat faces.

Pugs, like Mr Buggles, can have life-long problems due to their flat faces including difficult breathing. They can also suffer from eye conditions due to their bulbous eyes.

"I fear that Mr Buggles and his siblings were bred by people who wanted to cash in on the demand for puppies during lockdown and were destined to be sold on the Christmas market."