A DOGS Trust in Basildon is looking to find a new home for an unwanted nine-week-old puppy who was cruelly left abandoned in a box.

Staff have named the puppy Winnie because of an unusual marking on her snout that gives her the appearance of a bear cub.

Winnie was dumped in a local park when she was just a few weeks old, and was left cold, shivering and alone.

Fortunately, a passer-by found her and immediately brought her to Dogs Trust Basildon. Once safely inside, she received round-the-clock care from the rehoming centre.

Upon inspection by the Dogs Trust veterinary team, Winnie’s prominent marking was quickly diagnosed as a bad fungal infection.

She is now undergoing treatment to clear up her ailment and despite her ordeal Winnie on the road to recovery.

Although her infection is clearing up, Winnie’s snout is likely to always appear slightly imperfect due to existing scar tissue.

Maria Wickes, Dogs Trust Basildon Rehoming Centre Manager, is angered at the treatment Winnie received from her previous owners.

She said: “It’s so shocking that someone could abandon a family pet in this way, especially one so small and helpless.

"Winnie is such an adorable girl and a real softie - she has already melted a few hearts here at the centre with her bouncy, cuddly nature. You would never know she has been through such a tough time as she has so bravely recovered from her ordeal. Whilst her scar tissue is likely to remain, her fungal infection is clearing up nicely and she is just like any other healthy, energetic puppy.”

Ms Wicks believes reinforcing the famous "A Dog is For Life" slogan is crucial.

She said: “We urge anyone thinking of getting a dog to consider the lifelong commitment of dog ownership before making the important decision to bring a dog into your home. With dogs now available to buy at the click of a button, it’s so important for potential owners to do their research and make sure they are able to give their four-legged friend a lifetime of love.

"Winnie is perfect in our eyes and we really hope she can sniff out a loving owner to give her the fresh start she deserves.”

If you can give Winnie’s story a happy ending, contact the Dogs Trust on 0300 303 0292, or visit Dogs Trust Basildon, Nevendon Road, Wickford, Essex, SS12 0F or www.dogstrust.org.uk.