A DOG nearly died when callous owners dumped her while she gave birth.

Mistey was found tied to a post by a house and had to be rushed to vets to carry out an emergency Caesarean.

One of her three puppies died in the womb during the op because Mistey had lost so much blood.

Michael Knight, who runs Gemini Kennels K9 Rescue, rescued the dog and her puppies, saving her life.

Mr Knight, also a dog warden for Thurrock Council, said: “If it wasn’t for Riverside Vets in Grays, we wouldn’t be telling this story now.

“Misteywas getting weaker and weaker and it was really touch and go.

“It’s bad enough to dump a dog, but when she’s suffering with puppies, and one has already died, it’s sickening.”

Mistey has now been taken in by Gemini.

Michael said: “She was covered in fleas, had a matted coat and stank.

“Now she’s a beautiful dog.

She’s very quiet and clean and a great mother.

“She sits in our office by the fire and loves it. Now we want to find her and the puppies loving homes.”

This time of year is particularly busy for places like Gemini.

Michael said: “At Christmas time, people try to sell dogs to make quick cash. If they can’t sell them they often dump them in January.

It’s disgusting.

“A dog is for life. They are a lot of work and there are ups and downs. It is like having children. There’s no reason whatsoever a person with a heart could dump a dog no matter what breed it is. It’s appalling.”

To give Mistey or her puppies – a boy and a girl – a home, call Gemini on 01268 725825.