The animals were in a shocking state, unkempt, uncared for and ill fed, but they have responded well to treatment from vet Ruth Gray and nurse Dawn Hynd at Equipet in Kirkcaldy.

The puppies, three dogs and a bitch, seem to be Labrador/Collie crosses, and are now full of life and affection, but the cruel manner in which they were treated has angered dog warden Margaret Young.

She said, “The puppies were in a really disgusting state, but have been treated by the vet in Kirkcaldy and will be sent to the Second Chance Kennels in Thornton. There really is no need to abandon dogs like this when wardens will take them.”