Heartbreaking moment man dumps seven dogs on street before driving away

Watch: Man dumps seven dogs on road before driving away

Shocking CCTV footage shows a man dumping seven dogs out of a van and leaving them on the street.

The RSPCA has launched a hunt for the van driver who abandoned the animals, thought to have come from a puppy farm, in Coventry at 2.30pm on 30 December.

He is seen pulling onto the pavement in Yewdale Crescent and opening the van's back door.

He grabs the confused animals and pushes them onto the road before slamming the door shut.

The dogs dash back to the van as the man gets back into the driver's seat before he pulls away, leaving the panicking animals in the road.

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A resident who witnessed the incident contacted police who managed to capture the animals.

Some of the dogs were microchipped but their details had not been registered.

All seven dogs are being cared for by the RSPCA who are appealing for help in identifying the driver.

RSPCA inspector Vicki Taylor said: “The footage is really shocking.

"To see the poor dogs in such obvious confusion and distress as the van pulls away is heartbreaking.

“Thankfully, a member of the public spotted what had happened and contacted the police who were able to capture the dogs and bring them to our animal hospital where they are now getting the care they need."

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Tayor added: “The dogs are a mix of different breeds, including spaniels and terriers. We suspect they have been used for breeding because of the condition they are in.

“All smelt of faeces and urine and most have skin issues. One Yorkie type dog was severely matted.

“We are already seeing abandonments rise month on month and are braced for a surge of abandoned and neglected animals as pet ownership soared during lockdown, with an estimated 3.2m people welcoming pets into their lives last year.

“We’re asking people to Join the Rescue this winter to help us help animals and bring abandoned animals to safety.”

The seven dogs, who have been named Bertha, Nelly, Tilly, Dottie, Molly, Bob and Ginger are now receiving care at RSPCA animal rescue centres.

Anyone who recognises the vehicle, the dogs, or the person in the footage can confidently contact the RSPCA by leaving a message on 0300 123 8018.

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