A Shih-tzu has been found abandoned near some housing estates in Thamesmead, with paws so matted he could barely walk.

The grey and white dog, named Puffin by staff and thought to be around two years old, was found wandering around on September 8 near Yarnton Way.

He was extremely thin and severely neglected, with his fur so matted it caused him pain to walk.

He was collected by the RSPCA and put into the care of a vet, who hopes he will make a full recovery.

RSPCA inspector Joanna Bishop said: "The fur around his paws were so matted they were about four times the size they should have been. 

"Poor Puffin had clearly been neglected all his life and never been properly looked after. The extent of the matting and the amount of faeces and other rubbish which was caught up in his fur was utterly shocking.

"Added to that he was abandoned on the streets and just left to roam, hobbling on legs he could barely walk on.

"Thankfully it looks like he will make a full recovery, but the matting was so severe we had to sedate him in order to removed it. But he is such a sweet-natured little thing, despite all the pain he was obviously in."

If anyone has any information about how Puffin came to be in this state call 0300 123 8018. 

The RSPCA is a charity and relies on public donations to exist. To help RSPCA rescue animals like this text HELP to 78866 to give £3 (texts cost £3 + one standard network rate message).