Dead puppy found near Leominster children's play area

A member of the public found the body in a grassy area amongst leaves on Ridgemoor Road ,on 31 December, an RSPCA spokesperson said.

The body was found between a children's play area, and a footpath along the River Lugg, directly behind a housing estate.

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RSPCA inspector Claire Davey retrieved the body the following day on January 1 and is now making enquiries to try and find out what happened.

She said: “The body was a male red/tan dog, possibly a chihuahua or terrier cross, and is believed to be an older puppy/young adult. He had no microchip, and had a brown plastic collar with no tag.

Warning: RSPCA handout picture of the puppy below

“The finder said there was also a blanket found near the body, but this was not there when I attended. It appears that the dog either died elsewhere and was placed there, or that it curled up and passed away in the pile of leaves.”

The RSPCA is now appealing for anyone with first hand information to get in touch. 

“It is heartbreaking to think what has happened to this dog, but at the moment we don’t know how he died, but due to the body being left where it was, it is suspicious,” said Ms Davey.

“If you can help us with our enquiries please do get in touch by calling 0300 123 8018.”