TWO dogs were needlessly killed in a car accident after they were left abandoned in the middle of the night at Wood Green Animal Shelters in Godmanchester. Staff at the shelter believe the animals had been tied up outside the gates, but managed to chew th

TWO dogs were needlessly killed in a car accident after they were left abandoned in the middle of the night at Wood Green Animal Shelters in Godmanchester.

Staff at the shelter believe the animals had been tied up outside the gates, but managed to chew through the string and run into the road.

The bodies of the dogs were discovered on Monday morning when Wood Green staff arrived for work.

The charity believes the dogs had been abandoned at some point during the night.

The wire-coated terriers were both female and are believed to have been aged between four and five.

Vanessa Cunningham, head of veterinary services for Wood Green, said: "This was a horrific accident which could have been completely avoided had the owners just brought the animals into the shelters.

"Hopefully new Government legislation will help to diminish situations like this."

The new Animal Welfare Act comes into effect on Friday. It highlights the duty of care which all pet owners have towards their animal companions.

Part of the law states that anyone responsible for a pet must protect the animal from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

Under the act, anyone causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can face up to 51 weeks in prison, a fine of up to £20,000, or both.

Wood Green Animal Shelters is a national animal welfare charity which has been finding new homes for lost and unwanted animals since 1924.

INFORMATION: Anyone with any further information on the incident should contact Wood Green Animal Shelters on 08701 904090.