A litter of six puppies were found overheating and dehydrated when they were dumped like rubbish in a black bin bag yesterday.
The dogs, thought to be between four and five weeks old, were discovered at about 6am on July 11 by a motorist in a layby in Staithes Road in the village of Preston.
The man said he pulled over to have a closer look when he noticed the bag moving. He found the distressed animals inside.
They were taken to the RSPCA Hull and East Riding Branch rehoming centre on Clough Road in a cardboard box by the finder later that morning, where staff ensured they received immediate veterinary care.
Centre Manager Carina Porte, said: “We don’t know how long the puppies had been in the bag, which wasn’t sealed, but the vet said they were dehydrated and beginning to overheat.
(Image: RSPCA)
“Their very young age, coupled with this very hot weather, would have left them especially vulnerable and it could have been a very different outcome had help not arrived when it did.
“Thankfully all six puppies are now safe and being looked after by our incredible team at the centre. They’re far too young to be away from their mum, so they’ll be receiving specialist foster care over the coming weeks and it will be a little while yet before they will be ready for rehoming.”
The puppies, three females and three males, are thought to be French bull / Chihuahua crosses.
RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber, who has visited the location where the puppies were found, has appealed for the public’s help. She said: “As well as the puppies, we’re extremely concerned for the welfare of their mum who has been separated from her litter and may also be in need of veterinary care.
“It’s sad and frustrating that people are continuing to breed irresponsibly, as we fear is the case here, and resorting to leaving vulnerable young animals in situations like this, leaving others to pick up the pieces.
“We’d urge anyone who can help our investigation to come forward.”
Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA’s national appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01572501.