TWO Bulgarian dogs are looking for homes in the Forest of Dean after a blood-curdling start in life.

The dogs were rescued by Norma Sampson, a British woman who retired to Bulgaria a few years ago. Norma, a former air hostess, began rescuing and rehoming dogs in her adopted country, always keeping one or two to look after herself.

Michelle Jones, of Forest-based K9 Rescue, said: “Billy and Scooby were rescued by Norma after being thrown into the Yantra River near her village of Radanavo.

“Norma’s life took a sinister turn when she met and befriended another ex-pat, Lee Shipston. In April this year Norma was found murdered, with horrific head injuries, and stuffed into a sack on the banks of the same local river where she had previously found Billy and Scooby. It was a week before her body was discovered and neighbours then realised that her dogs were trapped in her home without food or water.”

“We specialise in international rescues like this and Billy and Scooby desperately needed our help. The dogs are now looking for a rural home together as we don’t think they should be separated.

“They walk very well together both on and off the lead, and are fit, strong, healthy dogs, suitable for an active lifestyle. They will make someone lovely companions and have such loving personalities.”

Anyone interested in offering the dogs a home should contact [email protected] or phone 01594 530327.

Lee Shipston admitted to killing Norma and was later charged with her murder.