RSPCA appeal after bodies of two puppies found buried in children’s playground

An animal charity is appealing for information after the bodies of two puppies were found partially buried in a children’s park last week.

The husky-type dogs, which the RSPCA says were “clearly malnourished”, were found near Burgess Park Woodland Playground, in New Church Road, by a member of the public on Thursday.  

Animal Rescue Officer Tia Pennant is now investigating and is keen to hear from anyone who knows what happened to the puppies. 

They were estimated to be aged between six to eight weeks-old, but could be as old as 12 weeks-old due to their low weight which the RSPCA said may have caused underdevelopment.

Ms Pennant said: “The puppies were clearly malnourished so it appears they were neglected before death.

“They were found in a shallow grave – which was obviously shocking and very upsetting for the members of the public to come across.

“I am keen to find out what happened to these puppies, and who they belonged to, so I am appealing for anyone with information to contact me.

“I am worried there may be other puppies from this litter in a similar poor condition and have concerns for the well-being of the mother.”

Anyone who can help can call the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

The RSPCA is tackling increasing rates of animals being abandoned.

In the first month of this year, 1,972 incidents were reported to the RSPCA – compared to 1,471 incidents in the first month of 2024, a rise of more than 34 per cent. 

Similarly, December 2024 saw 1,802 incidents of abandonment – more than 17 per cent higher than the 1,540 cases reported in the same month the previous year.

If you find a dog you believe has been abandoned, contact your local authority’s stray dog service; you can find out more here.

Pictured top: The bodies of two puppies were found in Burgess Park Woodland Playground last week (Picture: Google Street View)