The RSPCA is appealing for information after three unwell puppies were reportedly dumped by a man who pulled up a playground in Farnworth and asked children if they wanted the young dogs.

One of the puppies had to be put to sleep.

The animal welfare charity was contacted following the incident on Tuesday, January 17.

The dogs, a lurcher and two Chihauhuas, were all aged around six weeks old and too young to be away from their mothers, prompting fears they were from litter breeders.

It was reported the youngsters were playing near Hall Lane when the man in a blue car pulled up, asked if they wanted three puppies, dumped them out of his car then drove off.

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RSPCA inspector Beth Fazackerley attended to collect the puppies and took them to the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital.

She said: “Very sadly, one of the Chihuahua puppies was very weak and wasn’t able to lift up their head. They were so poorly that I was concerned they might die on the way to the animal hospital. As soon as a vet saw the puppy they said that they were not in a good way and the sad decision was made to put the puppy to sleep to end their suffering.

“Sadly, the other two puppies also deteriorated even with urgent treatment. It turned out they had parvovirus and we are heartbroken that they also passed away.”

The lurcher puppy was microchipped however the chip was not registered, so there is no information for the RSPCA to follow up on - prompting the charity to ask the public for help.

The RSPCA Inspector added: : “It is very concerning that these three puppies - who were all far too young to be away from their mums - were dumped like this. It may be that they have come from someone who is breeding different litters and these puppies were thought to be ‘unsellable’ because they weren’t in the best health.

“Whatever the situation, it is unacceptable for any animal to be abandoned.

“I am urging anyone who has any information to contact our appeals line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.”

The RSPCA has highlighted the link bewteen organised crime and dog trade, with traders making millions from selling pups.