The RSPCA is appealing for information after five 'vulnerable' puppies were found abandoned in a box in a park.
A member of the public was shocked to stumble upon a small box with five crying puppies inside when they were walking through Heathervale Recreation Ground in New Haw, Addlestone, on Monday.
RSPCA Inspector Natalie Kitchin, who is now investigating their abandonment, said: “The member of the public kindly moved the puppies into a larger box and wrapped them in a towel before taking them to a local vets in Staines.
“The clinic alerted us and we have now launched an investigation. We’re making enquiries in the local area and are keen to hear from anyone who may recognise the puppies - thought to be Jack Russell terrier crosses - or who saw anything suspicious in the park on Monday.
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“If you have any information please contact our appeal line on 0300 123 8018 - all calls are dealt with in confidence.”
The five-week-old puppies received vet checks and were then moved into the care of an RSPCA fosterer.
One of the pups was particularly lethargic so underwent a number of tests and has been taken back into vet care.
The puppies - three males and two females nick-named Ben, Jerry, Rocket, Calippo and Solero by Natalie - are not yet ready for rehoming applications so please don’t contact the branch to enquire about them.
The RSPCA fears an animal welfare crisis as its centres reach capacity - with waiting lists of pets waiting to come into care - and adoption rates appear to be slowing.
Natalie added: “Our centres are full to bursting at the moment and, sadly, we’ve seen an increase in the number of animals coming into our care.
"We’re seeing lots of animals being abandoned and many of our branches are being approached by owners wishing to sign their pets over as they can no longer care for them.
“We fear this is as a result of the cost of living crisis and are concerned this will continue to get worse throughout the year, with struggling charities like the RSPCA left to pick up the pieces.
“We believe one reason for this increase in animals being abandoned may be that owners did not realise the costs associated with their pets - which can include vet bills, feeding an animal, boarding facilities and grooming bills.”
The charity is urging owners who are struggling to care for their pets to ask for help.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.
Do you have a dog story to share? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
