The three small dogs, thought to be either Lhasa apso or shih tzu, were in “considerable discomfort” and pain when they were taken to the RSPCA Bryn-y-Maen Animal Centre. Two dogs, a black and white male and a cream female were found at Plas Glorian, Llanrwst Road, Conwy on Tuesday, November 11. A third cream and white female dog was picked up by an RSPCA dog warden at Sychnant Pass Conwy.

RSPCA Inspector Kevin Paton stressed it is no co-incidence the three dogs have been found “wandering around” Conwy in the same week. He said: “I am hoping the public will be able to tell me where these dogs came from. They were not friendly when we first brought them into the centre but this was simply because they were in pain from the mats. Once they were shaved they became totally different dogs with lovely natures. Such long-term neglect is appalling.”

The dogs were not wearing collars and were not microchipped. Inspector Paton said it was a “mystery” and stressed there could be more dogs in the town that need help. He said any long-haired animals require grooming and hair cuts and owners need to be aware of extra work and expense when taking on a dog. If you think you can solve the mystery of the matted dogs call the RSPCA National Cruelty And Advice Line on 0300 1234 999.