ONE of the nine dogs horrifically dumped in the countryside is being ‘fostered’.

The poodle-crosses, which were found near Winchester in appalling condition last week, are being cared for at various RSPCA centres across the county.

Dave, who was at Mount Noddy near Chichester, has now moved in with a registered foster, which inspector Jan Edwards, said is “great news”.

It is with a view to him being re-homed, but he is currently not well enough.

She also said Kate, who vets were originally concerned about after she became depressed and was unable to walk, is greatly improving.

“She looks so much brighter today even from Monday,” Ms Edwards said.

“The team at the Ark have been doing a lot with her. She doesn’t have that vacant look any more, and she is walking more comfortably.”

Kate was also sedated today so that doctors could investigate ear and teeth problems.

The dogs were found with their fur so badly matted they could barely see, stand or walk and it took vets three hours per dog to remove it.

In total around 95 kilograms of hair was removed and it is now being stored with the RSPCA as evidence.