A young Cockerpoo puppy, only weeks old, was rescued after someone abandoned him in a in a rucksack in Berkshire woodland on 10 February – and the RSPCA is appealing for information.
Members of the public saw a man dropping the rucksack in Finchampstead Woods before running off, and found the collapsed puppy inside. They immediately rushed him to a local vet, who in turn called the RSPCA.
Inspector Andy Eddy, who is now investigating, said, “The puppy is only approximately eight or nine-weeks-old and initially seemed very poorly when he was first taken in by the vets.
“Witnesses had been walking through the woods when they saw a man dump the bag – a black Reebok rucksack – before running off. When they looked inside the rucksack they discovered the little curly-haired pup in a paper bag.”
“Vets initially had concerns as the puppy didn’t appear to be able to use his rear legs and they suspected a neurological problem. However, they’ve run numerous tests and have been unable to come to a conclusion as to what is making him unsteady on his back legs.
“He’s got stronger and is improving every day. He’s now bright and bouncy, and his mobility is much better. He can be weak on his rear end and has some strange episodes where he appears to go a little vacant so this will be monitored.”
The man who abandoned the Cockerpoo pup was described as speaking in a foreign language, wearing a black and white t-shirt, jeans and a baseball cap.
“TO ANYONE WHO SAW THE INCIDENT OR WHO MAY KNOW WHO IS RESPONSIBLE – CALL US ON 0300 123 8018”
Inspector Eddy added, “I believe he may have been abandoned due to his health problems. Perhaps a breeder felt they’d be unable to sell him, or perhaps an owner was
“Either way, I’m looking into the circumstances and would be keen to speak to anyone who saw the incident or who may know who is responsible – call us on 0300 123 8018.”
The puppy, now named Watson, has been moved to in Surrey. He’ll be fostered by a member of staff and will continue to be closely monitored.