RSPCA appeal after dumped puppy found dead on Wiltshire roadside
WARNING: This article contains graphic images
Last updated 18th Feb 2021
An appeal has been launched by the RSPCA, after a puppy was found dead in a pet carrier which had been dumped on the side of a rural Wiltshire road.
The charity were called at around 2:30pm on Monday (15th February), after a member of the public found the dog on Edington Road in Steeple Ashton.
The tan and white female was discovered in a plastic animal carrier and there are fears that she may have been alive when dumped.
It's hoped the public may have some information and be able to help with the RSPCA's investigation.
RSPCA inspector Steph Daly said:
"It's not clear when she was dumped in the area or how long she may have been dead but we'd be keen to hear from anyone who may recognise her or know where she has come from.
We fear she may have been alive when she was dumped as the pet carrier had faeces inside it when she was found, suggesting she sadly died while trapped in the carrier.
It's difficult to say exactly what breed of dog she is, although the vet believes she was a Jack Russell cross, and it is thought she is around six weeks old.
It's shocking to think she was simply discarded like rubbish and left to die at the roadside. Anyone with information should contact our appeal line on 0300 123 8018."
GRAPHIC IMAGE WARNING
CALLING ON THE GOVERNMENT FOR CHANGE
The animal welfare charity have recently launched their #ForPupsSake campaign, which is calling on the UK government to change the law and stop puppy imports.
During the pandemic, the demand for puppies have increased hugely in the UK, which the RSPCA say may be inadvertently fuelling the puppy trade here and abroad.
A poll showed that 38% of adults considering getting a dog in the next six months would buy one that had been smuggled into the country from abroad.
So they are urging law makers to increase the minimum age that puppies can be brought into the UK from 15 weeks to 24 weeks, as well as introducing better border checks.
To find out more about their #ForPupsSake campaign, visit the RSPCA website.