RSPCA appeal after the bodies of four puppies are found dumped in a park

The RSPCA is appealing for information after the bodies of four dead puppies were found dumped in a Cheshire park.

The horrific find was made by a group of teenagers on Sunday in Congleton Park, near Worrall Street in Congleton, who alerted their parents.

One of the parents called Cheshire Police who removed the bodies. The RSPCA are now investigating the incident.

 Inspector Caren Goodman-James is now appealing for anyone with information about who dumped the puppies or who they were owned by to get in touch.

Three were believed to be seven-week old Pomeranian-types  and another appeared to be a Spaniel, so it is thought they could be from two different litters or one was a cross-breed. 

Caren said: “The puppies were taken to a vet for examination and were found to have no microchips. The cause of death is not known at this stage but they all appeared to be in poor health and covered in pieces of sawdust.

“Four bodies dumped in this way obviously raise suspicions that the puppies have died from an illness and may have come from an unscrupulous breeder.

“I am hoping someone will know who these puppies belonged to and can provide me with that information.

“Someone may have been to view a litter of puppies and may have seen them. I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen something suspicious in this area at the weekend when I believed the bodies were dumped.

“I would urge anyone with information to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.” 

The RSPCA has seen a surge in interest for people adopting or buying puppies during lockdown but this increased demand may be inadvertently fuelling the puppy trade with unscrupulous and unlicensed breeders profiting from their illegal trade. The animal welfare charity would always advise people to Adopt don’t Shop.

For anyone wanting some tips about getting a dog should see our tips below::

• The RSPCA would encourage anyone thinking of getting a dog to adopt a rescue dog instead of buying a puppy. Our animal centres across the country have dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages and temperaments: www.rspca.org.uk/findapet. 

• Anyone thinking of buying a puppy should do lots of research before getting a dog to ensure they understand the responsibility involved in caring for that dog before getting one. 

• If you have identified a specific breed or type of dog then do lots of research on that dog and prospective breeders, speak to your vet and to other people for recommendations.

• Use The Puppy Contract to help you find a responsible breeder and to choose a happy, healthy puppy. 

• Visit the breeder and the puppies as much as possible, see the puppies in the place they were born and reared, and ask to meet the mum or - if possible - both parents. 

• Ask the breeder lots of questions and ask to see their licence, veterinary records and any relevant health checks. 

• Never pay cash and don't be pushed into handing over money quickly or meeting somewhere that isn't the location the puppy has been born and reared (eg a service station or a car park). 

• If you have concerns about the conditions the dogs are being kept in or the welfare of the dogs, walk away and report your concerns to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, police on 101 and the local council.

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.