Police launch investigation after deaths of newborn puppies in Shropshire border town

A female dog was taken to a vet in Leominster, near the south Shropshire border, with a request that she be euthanised because she was bleeding heavily.

After being checked out by the vets on Friday, Nancy the dog was deemed to be healthy but had just given birth.

PCSO Stephanie Harper, of Leominster police, said: “The local vets deemed the female dog well, but stated that she had just given birth to puppies.

“The puppies were nowhere to be seen so a request was made for information by the Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue to find their whereabouts.

“Police were informed and started an investigation, working alongside the charity and the community.

“The circumstances are still unknown at this time, but tragically a number of puppies have been found that have sadly passed away.”

Police are making further enquiries, and have asked anyone with information to contact PC Adam Stobbart by emailing leominster.snt@westmercia.police.uk quoting reference 00345_I_30112024

A spokesperson for Hereford and Worcester Animal Rescue said on Facebook on Saturday: “A number of newborn puppies have been found and recovered in Leominster this morning, sadly all have passed away.

“We are unsure if there could be anymore, if anyone knows anything please do come forward.

“Thank you to all who have shared this distressing post so far and have given information.

“We cannot disclose any more information right now.”

The dog is being looked after by the animal rescuers and is 'doing well'.