Tiny puppy found dumped in rucksack in woods

A chocolate-coloured cockapoo who was rushed to the vets after being abandoned in a rucksack in Berkshire woodland is making a healthy recovery.

The tiny dog, eight or nine weeks old, was struggling to use its hinds legs when it arrived at the local veterinary surgery on 10 February.

Witnesses had seen a man dumping a black Reebok rucksack in Finchampstead Woods before running off.

When they looked inside the bag, they discovered the curly-haired puppy in a paper bag.

The vets admitted the dog, which has been named Watson, and reported the incident to the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Andy Eddy, who is now investigating, 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.

"He's got stronger and is improving every day. He's now bright and bouncy, and his mobility is much better.

“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.

Inspector Eddy thinks the dog may have been abandoned due to his health problems when a breeder felt they could not sell him or an owner was concerned about veterinary costs.

He added: “Times are hard and we appreciate that pet ownership and vet bills can be expensive but it is never acceptable to abandon an animal, particularly one who is sick and vulnerable like poor Watson.”

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Watson has now been moved to Millbrook Animal Rescue Centre in Surrey.

He'll be fostered by a staff member and will continue to be closely monitored.

The RSPCA is appealing for information to help find out where Watson has come from and who may have been responsible for his care and abandoning him.

The man seen dumping the rucksack in the woods is described as speaking in a foreign language, wearing a black and white t-shirt, jeans and a baseball cap.

Members of the public who witnessed Watson being abandoned have also informed the police.