An investigation has been launched after two dogs were found dead in the stream of a river in the same location but in separate incidents.

Both described as lurcher breeds, the canines were spotted in the River Roding, one on Monday, April 8 and the other around five days prior.

The bodies were recovered by members of voluntary dog search group Find n’ Seek who took them to Palmerston’s Veterinary Group’s mortuary in Buckhurst Hill.

Shelagh Savage, founder of Find n’ Seek Dog Search and Recovery, said it is not the first time she has come across dogs disposed in similar situations.

“I have seen this happen plenty of times, a dog was found burnt in the woods nearby the week before.

“It has happened a couple of times over the last where dogs have been found abandoned across the district and neighbouring areas but not on a regular basis in the same location.

“The dogs were already decomposed and they definitely did not die in the stream, there was around one and a half to two inches of water where they were found.”

The Chigwell voluntary dog searcher said the group currently has ten active members who search for lost pets and strays within Epping Forest, including Redbridge and Waltham Forest.

Around 20 dogs have been successfully found and reunited with owners since the group formed last year, with some searches lasting up to a month.

“As a dog lover it gives you a horrible feeling,” explained Ms Savage. “The River Roding has council members and park rangers regularly patrolling the area but not over the weekends.

“It’s no surprise these animals were found dumped at the beginning of the week.

Ms Savage also added that the feeling her and volunteers get from re-uniting dogs with their owners as “no other feeling like it”.

Those who find canines abandoned or found dead are asked to contact Find n’ Seek for them to remove it and seek clues for investigations.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We are concerned that two dogs have been found dead in a river.

“We are investigating this, and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously with a dog in that area.

Unfortunately the dogs were not microchipped so have not been able to trace any owner at this stage and we have not received any information from witnesses who may have seen what happened to dogs.

If you would like to join Find n’ Seek Dog Search Recovery Group or provide any information about a missing dog, visit their Facebook page.

Alternatively, please call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 to report any animal-related incidents.