DUSTY is the sole survivor of a shocking act of animal cruelty that condemned two of his siblings to horrific deaths yesterday.

The three labrador-cross puppies, barely six weeks old, were sealed in a garbage bag and dumped in a service station bin on Port Wakefield Rd at 7.30am yesterday.

He was saved by a shocked customer.

Severely distressed and in need of medical treatment, the puppy's future is now bright following his chance discovery.

Vet Dr Kym Southerland gave the six week-old a good prognosis. "We've given him some antibiotics and some painkillers, so we're very optimistic," he said.

"His colour is good and he's not in too bad a state considering the circumstances. He's just quite distressed and he'll be continually monitored over the weekend."

RSPCA Chief Inspector Simon Richards said the animals' dumping was a despicable act.

"I am shocked and disgusted that some- one could do this," Mr Richards said.

"Aside from discussing what a deplorable actnte