DOG wardens are trying to trace the owners of two dogs handed into officers in St Helens.

Wardens and vets were close to tears after being called by a resident who had taken a stray into her garden.

It was suffering from one of the biggest tumours they had ever seen and was unable to sit or lie down.

The wardens took the dog to a local vet who had to put it to sleep to end its suffering. The vet said that, due to the size of the tumour and condition of the dog, it had taken many months to grow.

The RSPCA are looking at a prosecution if the owner can be traced, they have taken custody of the dog’s body, which had no tag or micro-chip.

Wardens from St Helens are also appealing for help following the discovery of a stray, which is unrecognisable due to neglect.

Dog wardens think it may be a Shitzu but due to matted hair and an infection it is hard to tell. The dog, found in the Queens Park area of the town, is not chipped.

Wardens are appealing for any information which could lead to tracing the owners.

If you can help, contact the Dog Wardens on 01744 456338.