Ellie was dumped by a Transit van in Bootle, Merseyside
The RSPCA is investigating after a mastiff who had recently had puppies was abandoned in a Merseyside layby.
A passerby alerted the animal welfare charity after seeing a Transit van pull into a layby at Pinfold Woods on the Northern Perimeter Road in Bootle, throw out the mastiff and drive off. The incident occurred at 8.30pm on 17 August.
RSPCA inspector Naomi Morris has launched an investigation and is keen to hear from anyone who may recognise the dog.
She said: “She is a tan-coloured female mastiff type who has clearly recently had puppies. I suspect she may have been used for breeding and has now been abandoned as she is no longer useful or profitable; it’s heartbreaking that she could well have been used as a puppy machine and then cast aside when she’s served her purpose.
“I’d like to hear from anyone who may have seen the incident at Pinfold Woods on 17 August or who recognises the dog to come forward and contact our appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
The mastiff was taken in by the RSPCA’s Warrington, Halton & St Helens branch where staff named her Ellie.
Katie Buckley, from the branch, said: “She’s doing well and is currently in foster care with one of our staff. She’s undergoing treatment for an ear infection and some lumps we’ve found on her body.”
Ellie will remain in the RSPCA’s care while officers investigate. If she isn’t claimed she’ll begin her search for a new home once vets have given her a clean bill of health.
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.