THE final piece of a puzzle was slotted into place after the discovery of a third abandoned dog.

A member of the public found three Shitzu dogs on the A543 between Bylchau, near Denbigh, and The Pet Joint at Cwm Y Rhinwedd Farm.

Two of the dogs, described in very poor condition, are being cared for by the Luxury Pet Home Boarding Hotel. The third, which had been hit, was not located until earlier this morning (Wednesday) and is now also in the care of the hotel.

Steve Belgrau, owner of The Pet Joint, spoke to the Free Press whilst enroute to the vets.

He said: "It was found about 10am. It had been spotted by a member of the public running on the A543.

"He didn't want to be caught. He was very scared and frightened.

"I kind of tackled him to the floor and threw a blanket on him. We had a few little nips to our hands but he is safe.

"He was in awful condition. Full of fleas and parasites and he stinks.

"We are pleased we have all three in our care now. We think it is a possible cruelty case.

"The support we have had is brilliant. We are going to see how they are in seven days and see if anyone comes forward.

"It looks like they have been dumped. Some people have called, thinking they are their dogs, only on closer inspection they realise they are not."

When the two other dogs were found, they had no collars, their fur was matted and they were classed as "very dirty".

Caring Steve and his staff quickly took action - they were brushed, bathed and fed. Both are male dogs and not microchipped.

A dog groomer has kindly groomed the animals free of charge.

Steve said the support by the community has been amazing.

He added: "We really do appreciate what everyone has done to assist.

"They are so sweet and loving and they were so thirsty and hungry. We cannot begin to describe the smell coming from their fur. At least they are safe now.

"The two are eating and drinking and they have been groomed. They look like completely different dogs from when they came to us.

"We are considering setting up a gofund page to help pay for their medical care. So many people have been in touch wanting to make donations, so we think this might be the best way to go.

"We are pleased that we have all three dogs with us now."

The Pet Joint have been in touch with the police.

The RSPCA has been approached for comment.