Paralysed five-week-old puppy left in alley to die on Christmas Day

Someone left a newborn puppy to die in an alleyway on Christmas Day.

The RSPCA has launched an investigation after the paralysed dog was found in Carr Street by a member of the public, who looked after it at home before contacting the animal charity two days later.

It was left in a cardboard box in Bradford with no food or water.

Inspector Dave Holgate later collected the dog and took him to a nearby vet.

‘Unfortunately, the little crossbreed puppy was in a terrible state,’ he said. ‘He was collapsed at the rear and was dragging his back legs.

‘It seems as though his back end was paralysed and he was unable to use his legs.

‘Goodness knows how long the poor pup had been in this state – he may have been born like this or could have deteriorated as he grew.

‘I suspect he was abandoned by the breeder when they realised he would need expensive veterinary treatment or would fail to sell.’

Vets assessed the tiny dog and discovered he was suffering and was sadly unlikely to recover so he was put to sleep on welfare grounds.

‘It’s so sad that we weren’t able to save this little puppy but I’m just glad he’s no longer sat inside a cardboard box cold, frightened and in pain,’ added Inspector Holgate.

‘At least he felt love and compassion in his final hours.

‘To abandon this poor puppy – who was too young to be away from his mum and siblings – is disgraceful, but to do so on Christmas Day with him in dire need of veterinary attention is despicable.

‘I’m now seriously concerned about his mother and I’m appealing for anyone who recognises this pup or may know where she’s come from to get in touch by calling our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.’