An investigation is underway to find out how a dog was able to get into such a “poor condition” after it was discovered wandering around a town centre alleyway.

The female, Shih Tzu-cross – called Lilly – was found straying in Victoria Street in Sheerness last Friday.

Swale council’s stray dog service said the lost pet had to receive veterinary treatment, after being found, for a flea allergy, conjunctivitis and a double ear infection.

She did have a microchip, the service added, but her owner was not able to be reached straight away.

On Monday, Swale council said the owner had since come forward.

However, the authority said it was still going to investigate how the poorly pooch managed to get into such a sorry state.

A council spokesman said: “Our dog warden collected a 15-year-old, female, Shih Tzu-cross, named Lilly, who had been found straying in Victoria Street, Sheerness, on Friday.

“She was in a poor condition and was taken to the vets for treatment.”

The spokesman added: “The owner has now come forward and we are investigating how Lilly was allowed to get into this condition.”

For anyone who finds a stray dog, the advice is to contact the council as soon as possible and it will arrange for it to be picked up.

If the lost pet is found between 9am and 5pm on a week day, people should call 01795 417850. If they are discovered after 5pm or during a weekend or bank holiday, people should instead call 07795 237479.

Swale Borough Council officers advise people not to feed a dog while waiting for it to be collected.

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