On Saturday 12 July, two puppies believed to be 4-5 months old were found dumped in bushland at Chuwar with their mouths taped shut. RSPCA Inspectors also found tape residue on all four of their paws, leading to suggest that their legs had also been bound.

A caring member of the public caught one of the pups on Saturday.

The second puppy, still on the loose and extremely fearful, was retrieved the following day by RSPCA Inspectors, with the help of its rescued littermate, who encouraged the frightened pup to come closer. It was a patient wait and a commendable act by our Inspector.  

“These situations are incredibly distressing and can take a real emotional toll on our frontline staff. Their professionalism and compassion in the face of such cruelty deserve the highest recognition,” the Chief Inspector said.

RSPCA Inspectors are urgently appealing to the public for information and are seeking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or has knowledge of how the puppies came to be in such a state.

Information can be provided by calling the RSPCA Hotline on 1300 ANIMAL (264 625) or reporting online.

The puppies were found along Robin St, Chuwar.

“This is one of the most disturbing cases of abandonment we’ve seen,” said RSPCA Qld’s Chief Inspector. “These puppies were left defenceless and in a condition that could have easily led to prolonged suffering or death if they had not been found in time.”

“This is not only cruel – it is also illegal,” the Chief Inspector added. “Under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001, it is an offence to abandon an animal or cause it harm. The actions inflicted on these puppies are utterly unacceptable, appear to have been done with clear intent, and we are determined to identify those responsible.”

Under the Animal Care and Protection Act (2001), those found guilty of animal cruelty offences can face a maximum penalty of $322,600.00 or 3 years imprisonment, or a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment for severe animal cruelty under the Criminal Code Act 1899.

The RSPCA would like to sincerely thank the member of the public who acted quickly to assist one of the puppies and alert RSPCA. Their compassion played a vital role in the safe recovery of both animals.

Both puppies are now safe and receiving care at the RSPCA.

The Chief Inspector also reminded the public that there is always help available for unwanted animals.

“There are many other choices a person can make rather than dumping animals. Surrendering them to a shelter, reaching out to a rescue group, or asking for help is always the right path. Abandonment is never the answer.”

The RSPCA is committed to investigating this matter thoroughly and urges anyone with information to come forward.