A pedigree puppy was found tied to railings near a canal towpath in a South Staffordshire village.

Animal lovers in Coven Heath have now taken in the black labrador, which they have named Bruno, after discovering him found near the village bridge off Ball Lane.

It is believed the dog had been left for more than three hours before he was discovered by a man walking his dogs yesterday.

He has now been taken in by 17-year-old Rodbaston College student Charlotte Ecclestone, who is studying for an NVQ in equine care. She was called by Chris White, chairman of the Coven Heath Residents’ Association, who had been alerted to a dog in distress.

“Chris called and asked if I could go and see if the dog was still there,” said Charlotte, of Ball Lane, who has two other chocolate labradors.

“He was barking and growling at first and looked quite hungry and thirsty so I went and got some food and water for him. He was still growling so I sat down and let him come over to me.

“He calmed down and came to lie on my lap. It’s such a shame he was left tied up.” Charlotte is now trying to trace the owner of the healthy dog but says she will keep him if no-one comes forward.

Anyone with information about the dog’s background should call 07969 510595.