Race against time to find puppies after mum who had just given birth left tied to lamppost

Staff at an animal shelter have issued an urgent appeal after five puppies that were 'dumped' with their mum were rescued. Five-year-old Staffy, Misty, was reportedly abandoned by her owner and tied to a tree in Wigan alongside some of her puppies.

The ECHO understands the dogs were rescued by a member of the public who took them to Carla Lane Animals in Need, in Melling. Shelter believe that ten puppies were born, however only five of them were rescued. They have issued an urgent appeal to help find the other puppies.

In a post on their Facebook page, the shelter said: “[Thanks to the] determination of one lady more pups have been recovered and are safe. Well done. Misty is a gorgeous staffy who was abandoned and left tied to a tree. You can see from her photo that she had recently had puppies. [She] is another lovely dog discarded by her cruel uncaring heartless owners.

READ MORE: Police dog finds man hiding in bushes after car stopped

READ MORE: Man 'pouring with blood' as 'bully' savages arm and attacks 'therapy' dog

"Every single person who buys a pup has added to the misery of these poor dogs. Do not buy, adopt.”

Carla Lane Animals in Need say they have reported the incident to RSPCA. They added: “This sort of behaviour has no place in civilised society, it’s appalling and we will always highlight such wicked cruelty.”

They are looking for a new home for Misty. They said: “She is a beautiful, friendly girl. She seems fine around other dogs and could live with children over the age of ten.” You can apply to adopt Misty here.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We’re very concerned about this situation and we’re so glad that beautiful Misty and some of her puppies are safe and well in the care of Carla Lane Animals in Need. We would appeal to anyone who has first-hand information about Misty or her offspring to contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999."