A DOG who weighs 40 kilos has been abandoned at a rehoming centre overnight.

The old tyme bulldog, which has been named Augustus, was dumped outside Dogs Trust Merseyside and tied to the gates with a thin piece of ribbon.

Rehoming centre manager Georgina Lowery turned up to work at around 6am and spotted the dog running around on the main road outside the gates.

Many passersby got out their cars in an attempt to catch him and eventually he was coaxed into the grounds of the centre.

Georgina told the Globe: “It was once we had him safely inside that I spotted the ribbon dangling from his collar.

"I then saw a dog bed and water bowl outside the gates along with the rest of the ribbon.

"He is a very big dog and we are on a main road so he was at real risk of being injured or even killed.

"I am so grateful to the people that stopped to help him and thankfully we were able to get him to safety.”

Carer Kim Rowlands with Augustus and the piece of ribbon that had been used to tie him to the gates of the rehoming centre

Augustus was not microchipped and is thought to be around seven-years-old.

Georgina added: “He is a great boy, very laid back and affectionate once he gets to know you.

"He will need to go on a doggie diet in his new home but with a few nice walks and the appropriate food he’ll soon shed the pounds.

"It’s such a shame that he was put in such a dangerous situation.

"If someone needs to give up their dog for whatever reason we urge them to come in to the centre and never abandon their dog in this way, putting them at risk unnecessarily.

"If we have the chance to talk to the owner we are able to find out more about the dog, such as are they used to living with other pets or children, all of which helps us find them the best home possible.”

The team are now looking for a forever home for Augustus where he is the only dog but he can live with children over the age of 14.

He is happy to go on walks with other dogs and is hoping for a relaxed home where he can enjoy the company and love of his two legged friends.

Anyone who wants to give Augustus the loving home that he deserves, call 0300 303 0292 or visit Dogs Trust Merseyside.