Appeal after cockapoo puppies dumped at Ipswich roadside

The RSPCA is appealing for information about two cockapoo puppies who were dumped at a roadside in Ipswich.

The dogs, aged around 10 weeks old, were found at the side of Old London Road on Tuesday 9 May by a member of the public, who contacted the animal welfare charity.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Jen Richardson, who is looking into the incident, said: “Both pups were quite lethargic when they were found, with the smaller of the two particularly sluggish and cold.

“They were taken into the care of one of our centres and are now with a fosterer, where they are doing so much better.

“However, it is really sad that they were dumped in the first place – they are so young and vulnerable, anything could have happened to them. We are keen to find out more information about how and why they were dumped and are urging anyone who knows anything to get in touch with us.”

If you have information, please contact the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01069829.

The charity’s officers are seeing the impact of the cost of living crisis on the frontline – more people are abandoning animals, more animals are coming into their care, and rehoming is slowing as financial pressures bite.

In April alone, the RSPCA received 1,508 reports about abandonments – up from 1,370 for the same month last year – a rise of 9.6%.

Jen said: “We understand the financial difficulties some people are experiencing right now, however abandoning your pet, or not seeking appropriate veterinary help if it’s needed, is never acceptable. There is help and support available and we would urge people to contact their vets, local rescues and animal welfare charities.”

To help pet-owners who are worrying about financial costs, there is information on the RSPCA’s cost of living hub. Alternatively, the public can call the charity’s dedicated cost of living call line on 0300 123 0650.