AN URGENT appeal has been launched by a charity near Dursley after seven puppies were found abandoned in a wet cardboard box.
The pug-cross puppies were discovered in a box on a mountain pass in New Tredegar in Caerphilly county in Wales on Tuesday, October 31.
They are now being cared for by Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home who say the puppies need around-the-clock care.
Several of them have various serious health conditions, including umbilical hernias, which will require repair when they are neutered.
A couple also have an underbite that may need medical intervention, but will be monitored as they grow.
The puppies have been fondly named 'the tree litter', as they have all been named after types of trees: Ash, Chestnut, Fern, Hazel, Maple, Oak and Willow.
It is estimated the final cost of the medical care is £8,400 and a fundraising appeal has been launched by the charity.
Fundraising manager Haley Medlock said: “When the puppies arrived at the centre, it was all hands on deck!
“The puppies require a huge amount of love and care, which the team are working around the clock to provide.’
“It breaks my heart to know that these puppies were abandoned, unwanted, and uncared for at such a young age.
“We are so thankful to the member of the public for finding them and taking them to a safe space before arriving in our care.
“They have so much love to give and will make the perfect companion for any lucky family.
“Their personalities are already shining! Willow, the smallest of the litter, is very affectionate and loves to curl up on your lap. Maple is the cheeky one of the bunch and will often chase her siblings around to ensure she has the best toy to play with.’
“Despite having an awful start to life, we know they will learn to love and trust humans again.”
You can donate to help the puppies here - tinyurl.com/bdzknvz9
You can read more here - tinyurl.com/bdzknvz9
The RSPCA is still appealing for anyone with first-hand information regarding the abandoned puppies to get in touch via 0300 123 8018 and quote 01177924.
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