THE DSPCA IS investigating the case of two dogs abandoned in very poor health, with one dog having the worst case of mange that the charity has seen in years.

The two dogs, a Labrador and a German Shepherd, were found tied up outside Ashtown dog pound and were in such bad health that the pound had to call the DSPCA.

When the dogs were taken to the DCSPA centre, the veterinary team reported that the 5-year-old labrador, Ivy, had an extreme case of mange which is a skin disease caused by parasites that infest the dog’s skin causing severe itching and hair loss.

In addition to mange, Ivy has open wounds on her legs as a result of pressure sores and untreated abscesses, she also has a heart murmur and is limping from an old injury.

The German Shepard also has a bad case of mange and some open sores but the DSCPA said she is generally in good health.

The animal charity hopes that ”with intensive treatment and a lot of TLC that Ivy will be fit and be looking for a home in the coming months.”

An investigation into the case is currently underway and the DSCPA have asked that anyone with information get in touch so that a prosecution can be made.

Anyone with information about the incident has been asked to email inspectors@dspca.ie.