TEN tiny puppies have been dumped by the roadside in Fareham.

The RSPCA has launched a probe after the young Staffordshire bull terriers were abandoned in a layby on Titchfield Lane on Saturday evening.

The dogs, which don't yet even have their eyes open, were discovered in a plastic box wrapped in a blanket in Titchfield Lane by a member of the public.

They are now receiving emergency medical treatment and are completely reliant on hand rearing to replicate the care their mum should be giving them.

RSPCA inspector Charlotte Coggins said: "It's estimated the puppies are around ten days old. They are tiny, they don't yet have their eyes open and need help feeding.

"Thankfully they are now getting the care they need, and we hope they will all make a good recovery."

Inspector Coggins said the animal welfare charity was also very concerned about the mother who will "no doubt be really missing her pups" and could be suffering from mastitis after recently having so many puppies.

She added: "I assume they'd been left in the layby by the person responsible in the hope they would be found and helped.

"However, leaving such young puppies exposed like this without the mum they so desperately need risked their lives.

"Anyone with information can call me in complete confidence on our inspectors' appeal line on 0300 123 8018."