Aberdeen puppy death sparks SSPCA investigation

A LEADING animal welfare charity has launched an investigation after an emaciated golden retriever pup died after being found tethered to a forklift truck in Aberdeenshire.

The puppy, less than a third of her ideal body weight, was found abandoned by a member of the public in the Blackhills area of Peterhead at 7am on Sunday

The six month old pup was taken to a veterinary clinic by Scottish SPCA staff where, tragically, she passed away.

Senior Inspector Scott Elphinstone said: “This puppy was in really poor condition when she was found. She was just 5.8kg, when she should have weighed approximately 20kg.”

He continued: “Leaving her tied to a forklift truck while she was clearly suffering was extremely callous and we are very keen to identify the person responsible.

“We’re urging anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible. Calls are in strict confidence and information can be left anonymously.”

An SSPCA spokeswoman explained: “Abandoning and causing an animal unnecessary are criminal offences and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.”