TWO dogs who were found abandoned in a small and cramped cage hidden under a bush have been saved by an animal charity in Gloucestershire.

The two German Shepherds were discovered in a wooded area in Birmingham in early May and have since been brought to Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home near Dursley. 

The pooches - who have been named Buffy and Tia - were found emaciated, covered in dirt as well as their own waste in the tiny crate. 

Staff believe the dogs are probably sisters and are aged around one-year-old.

They have been described as “gentle souls” who are still recovering. 

Both dogs spent three weeks at an animal hospital, before arriving at CDCH eight weeks ago. 

Buffy, who weighed only 17.5 kg when she was rescued, has particularly suffered from muscle loss and the impact of living in such a cramped space. 

A fundraising appeal has now been launched as medical costs for the two dogs have been described as “significant” for the charity. 

The two dogs were left in a small and cramped cage hidden under a bush in Birmingham  (Image: CDCH)

Buffy had a £600 x-ray to establish her condition and now also requires weekly hydrotherapy sessions costing £45 each.

Their rehabilitation journey is expected to be ongoing, particularly for Buffy.

Describing the moment the dogs were rescued, RSPCA Inspector Kate said: “They got them out of the cage and I could just see how thin they were.

“The fact they thought it was going to be acceptable to leave them in that cage…I just thought, I'm not leaving these dogs here!

She added: “To know they are with Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home, getting all the love and care they need makes me so happy.

“To get that outcome is the whole reason I do the job.

“Thank you so much Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home.”

A CDCH spokesperson said: “Your support can transform Buffy and Tia’s story from one of neglect to a tale of resilience and hope.

“We are committed to ensuring that Buffy and Tia receive the love and care they deserve.

“This commitment requires substantial resources, and we are reaching out to you, our compassionate community, for support. 

“Your contributions will provide essential medical care, nourishing food, and the loving environment they need to heal and thrive.

“Buffy’s ongoing medical requirements, and both dogs’ recovery journey, come at a significant cost, and your donations can make all the difference.

“Please consider making a donation to support Buffy and Tia. 

“Together, we can rewrite their future and ensure they never experience neglect again.”

You can donate to the appeal here - tinyurl.com/2v8snz9m

German Shepherds Buffy (left) and Tia (right) are being looked after by Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home (Image: Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home)