Dusty, the abandoned dog found in a dustbin

Shivering and whimpering, this emaciated young Staffordshire bull terrier was found in a freezing cold bin on Sunday night.

The plight of the dog, now named Dusty and being cared for at the Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria, is being used by the charity to urge people not to abandon pets during the Christmas period, particularly in view of the cold weather.

Elaine Martin, 52, of Stockwell, found Dusty in a communal bin when she took out her rubbish late on Sunday night in temperatures of -3C. She said: "I was absolutely gobsmacked. I scooped her out of the bin into my arms and ran back home with her. She was petrified and very weak."

Staff believe the dog — so thin her ribs and backbone are clearly visible — is between one and two years old. Once she has recovered, the charity will re-home her.

Caroline Dave, the hospital's nurse manager, said: "It breaks your heart to see a living creature thrown away like a piece of rubbish. If anyone is struggling to look after their pets, please contact the Blue Cross and we'll do our best to help."