Inspector Describes “Heartbreaking” Scene
Inspector Sian Ridley described the scene as deeply distressing.
“It was heartbreaking to see them all huddled together in one cage. They were such a pitiful sight,” she said.
Tragically, one puppy did not survive. The remaining 19 are now safe and recovering well with foster carers. Each puppy weighed less than 1 kilogram, highlighting just how young and vulnerable they were when abandoned.
Multiple Litters and Unanswered Questions
The puppies — 14 males and five females — are believed to come from two or possibly more litters. Vets estimate they are between six and eight weeks old.
Although their exact breed has not yet been confirmed, professionals suspect that the slightly larger puppies may be Cockapoos or Poodles, while the smaller ones are thought to be Jackapoos.
Inspector Ridley said the circumstances raised serious concerns.
“I couldn’t believe someone had abandoned 20 puppies. We don’t yet know where they came from, but it’s possible they originated from a puppy farm.”
Interestingly, the puppies were described as friendly, clean, and free from fleas — details that add to the mystery surrounding their abandonment.
“It’s also unusual to see such a high number of male puppies,” she added. “It raises the question of whether they were discarded because males are harder to sell or less useful for breeding.”
One Puppy Dies as Others Receive Emergency Care
Initially, rescuers feared the puppies may have been suffering from parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal disease. Fortunately, tests ruled this out.
Aside from a few worms, the puppies were generally in good health.
“They were so young and vulnerable. It’s likely someone drove to the lay-by, unloaded them from a car, and simply left,” said Inspector Ridley.
The RSPCA is appealing for information and urges anyone who may know who is responsible to come forward.
Puppies Safe, Named, and Not Yet Ready for Adoption
The puppies have been named alphabetically: Albert, Boris, Casper, Dylon, Elenor, Freddie, Guinevere, Hank, Irene, Jeremiah, Kaleb, Luna, Morris, Nevel, Oliver, Peter, Quinton, Rupert, and Saffron.
Many are currently being cared for by volunteers and foster carers. The RSPCA has asked the public not to enquire about rehoming at this stage, as the puppies still require professional veterinary care and monitoring.
Legal Consequences of Abandoning Dogs in the UK
Legal Consequences of Abandoning Dogs in the UK
Abandoning a dog in the UK is a criminal offence under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 and the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Dog owners have a legal duty to ensure the welfare of their animals. This includes providing suitable care, protection from pain and suffering, and a safe environment.
Those found guilty of abandoning an animal can face:
- Unlimited fines
- Up to five years in prison
- Disqualification from owning animals
- Seizure of animals in their care
Organisations such as the RSPCA urge owners who can no longer care for a pet to seek responsible alternatives, such as contacting a rescue centre, rather than abandoning animals in unsafe conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Abandoning puppies is a criminal offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Anyone found responsible can face unlimited fines, prison sentences of up to five years, and a ban on owning animals.
Do not attempt to care for them yourself unless they are in immediate danger. Contact the RSPCA, a local animal rescue, or a veterinary practice straight away. Very young puppies require professional care.
Large-scale abandonment is often linked to irresponsible breeding or puppy farming. When puppies are difficult to sell, unwell, or considered unsuitable for breeding, some breeders abandon them instead of seeking help.
Vets estimate the puppies were between six and eight weeks old, far too young to survive without proper care. Each puppy weighed less than one kilogram at the time of rescue.
The exact breeds have not been confirmed. However, vets believe the larger puppies may be Cockapoos or Poodles, while the smaller ones are thought to be Jackapoos.
No. The RSPCA has asked the public not to enquire about rehoming at this stage. The puppies are still receiving professional care and will only be considered for adoption when it is safe to do so.
It is unusual for such a large group to be predominantly male. The RSPCA believes this may indicate the puppies were abandoned because males are often more challenging to sell or less valuable for breeding.
Supporting ethical breeders, avoiding impulse purchases, and reporting suspected puppy farms can help reduce cases of abandonment. Responsible breeders never abandon animals and always prioritise welfare over profit.
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