Four puppies were abandoned in Guildford in freezing temperatures and winter storms
The RSPCA is appealing for information after four collie cross puppies were found abandoned in a ditch in Guildford.
The puppies were spotted by a dog walker on the common in Littlefield Close in Fairlands. Sadly, one of the puppies had died in the ditch and the two others were spotted running around Fairlands Common.
It is thought the third puppy died from exposure due to the extremely cold and wet conditions.
The dog walker who found them took them to Kingswood Vets in Chobham and contacted the RSPCA.
The two puppies, one three-months-old and another about 10-weeks-old, received veterinary treatment for fleas and were also very smelly and dirty when found. Later that evening, there was a further call from the vets as another 10-week-old collie cross puppy was found abandoned in the same area.
Inspector Helen Wheeler, who is investigating these incidents, said: “This is a horrible abandonment of these vulnerable puppies and it is very concerning that there were two incidents in the same day.
“The temperatures that morning were extremely cold with the storms passing through the night before and sadly one of the puppies had already died and was found lying in the ditch, wet and freezing cold. All the pups were covered in fleas, they were dirty and smelled very strongly of faeces.
“Later that day, I received a second call about another puppy found in a similar area and in the same condition as the others. I don’t believe they are from the same litter as they seem to be different ages.
“There is never an excuse to abandon an animal like this and leave them exposed to the elements. In this case, it tragically resulted in the death of one of the puppies. The other three seem to be doing much better so we are hopeful they will pull through.”
Inspector Wheeler is now appealing for anyone who may have seen anything unusual around Fairlands Common on Thursday morning (January 18) at about 11am, and again in the evening, or anyone who may recognise the puppies, to contact the RSPCA in strictest confidence, on 0300 123 8018.
The female puppies, named Lady, Belle and Ariel after Disney film characters are now in RSPCA care. The trio seem lively and are eating and playing normally.
If you see an animal in distress, please contact the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.