Domino and Spike were found in a dangerously underweight state roaming around Pitts Lane, Ryhill, earlier this week.

And they are just two of a growing number of dogs being abandoned each month – at a rate of more than one a day across the city.

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Janet Worrell, owner of Oakenshaw Grange Kennels and Cattery, took the animals after they were picked up by Wakefield Council's dog wardens.

In the first 20 days of this month, they have already taken in 19 dogs.

Mrs Worrell said: "This is about as bad as it gets, but we are seeing it more and more.

"They were very emaciated when they were found, very thirsty and covered in fleas – just skin and bones.

"We can tell they've been tied up and bound around their feet, so it seems like they've been kept in these conditions and then been released or they've escaped. It is devastating to think people could do this."

The dogs are slowly gaining weight, eating five small meals a day to gain strength.

The kennels, on Doncaster Road, Crofton, started taking in strays in April, with 28 arriving in the first month.

Mrs Worrell, 48, said: "We're getting higher numbers of pedigree dogs coming including extremely rare and expensive breeds.

"We're finding now that even if we track down the owners with micro-chips they do not want their pets back.

"As soon as an animal needs vet treatment people can't cope. Or if they're going away and can't find a kennel or afford the fees, rather than give up their holiday they set their dog free.

"These people shouldn't be taking on dogs in the first place. I just wish they could have a taste of their own     medicine."

Wakefield Council's dog warden service collected 152 dogs from January to April this year, but 274 from April to July.

The council took over full responsibility for stray dogs from the police in April.

Anyone wanting to re-home a dog should contact the kennels on 01924 863037.