Puppies Abandoned On Hampshire Doorstep

The RSPCA is appealing for information after two puppies were abandoned in a shoe box on a doorstep in Hampshire.

Someone living in Beggarswood, Basingstoke had a knock on their door at about 9pm on 8 January.

When they opened the door they found a men's Timberland shoe box was sitting on the doorstop.

Inside was a female black terrier pup, and standing next to the box was a tan and black puppy who had apparently climbed out.

Both puppies, which are about seven-weeks-old, had hair loss and a skin condition which is thought to be mange. The black puppy also had sore eyes.

The member of the public cared for the puppies overnight and they were collected the next day by RSPCA inspector Jan Edwards, who took them to a local vets for treatment.

Inspector Edwards, who is investigating, said:

''Luckily, these puppies were found quickly so they were still fairly warm but they were quiet and no doubt stressed by their ordeal.

"Where they were left is on a street which is close to a parade of shops and a car park so we are hoping someone may have seen the person responsible, even if they were not aware at the time what the shoe box contained.

"I would urge anyone with information about this incident to come forward so we can ensure no other animal is in danger or in need of treatment."

Inspector Edwards added:

"Abandoning animals is cowardly and totally unacceptable and I would urge anyone with information about the person involved to please come forward."

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal faces up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine.