THEY are the picture of health - and cute enough to melt the stoniest of hearts.

But that is a world away from the start these three puppies had in life after they were cruelly abandoned in the New Forest.

‘Pups in the wood’ Worzel, Sally and Sue were in a sorry state when discovered by chance by a passing dogwalker, who took them immediately to the Southampton Blue Cross.

The five-week-old trio of black and white English bull terrier cross puppies had been left in a box and were covered in dirt and fleas and suffering from worms when found.

And there was no sign of their mother.

But thanks to staff at the Blue Cross centre, in Bubb Lane, West End caring for them and cleaning them up as well as medical treatment they are recovering well.

Lara Alford, rehoming centre manager for Blue Cross, said: “The poor little things were really dirty and scared after being left in a box.

They’ve been having lots of baths since they arrived and their white bits are finally starting to look white again!

“It’s really lucky these puppies were found when they were – who knows what would have happened to them otherwise.

“It’s hard to imagine how someone could just dump such adorable little puppies to fend for themselves, and there really is no need when charities like Blue Cross are here to help.”

She urged people to get their pets neutered to prevent unwanted births of animals that then are at risk of being abandoned.

The three lucky puppies will soon be ready to find new homes after they have had their first vaccinations and have fully recovered from their ordeal.

If you would like to offer them a home call 0300 777 1530 or visit bluecross.org.uk.