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A PUPPY is receiving around-the-clock care after being abandoned in a rucksack in Finchampstead.
The chocolate-coloured cockapoo, now called Watson, was rushed into a nearby veterinary surgery on Thursday, February 10, after witnesses saw him being dumped in a rucksack in Finchampstead Woods.
The clinic admitted Watson, who arrived in a collapsed state and seemed unable to use his back legs.
Its team reported the incident to the RSPCA.
Inspector Andy Eddy, who is now investigating the incident, said that Watson is around eight- or nine-weeks-old and initially seemed very poorly.
“Witnesses had been walking through the woods when they saw a man dump a black Reebok rucksack before running off,” Mr Eddy said.
The man is described as speaking in a foreign language, wearing a black and white t-shirt, jeans and a baseball cap.
“When they looked inside the rucksack they discovered the little curly-haired pup in a paper bag,” Mr Eddy said.
“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.”
Mr Eddy said that Watson is getting stronger and is improving every day.
“He’s now bright and bouncy, and his mobility is much better,” he added. “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.”
Mr Eddy said he thinks Watson 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 concerned about the cost of veterinary treatment,” he said. “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.
“Times are hard and we appreciate that pet ownership and vet bills can be expensive but it is never acceptable to abandon an animal in this way, particularly one who is sick and vulnerable.”
Watson has now been moved to RSPCA Millbrook Animal Rescue Centre in Surrey. He’ll be fostered by a member of staff and will continue to be closely monitored. He is not yet available for rehoming.
The centre asks people not to enquire about Watson as calls may block the phone lines and prevent an emergency call from coming in.
The incident has also been reported to the police.
To contact Mr Eddy with information relating to the investigation, call 0300 123 8018.
