Six adorable pups were rescued by an animal welfare charity after being left abandoned in a cardboard box in Co Carlow.
Now the ISPCA is appealing for anyone who may have information on the owner of the puppies.
The collie/lurcher type puppies were saved after ISPCA Inspector Fiona Conlon was contacted by local animal lovers who found a box with the defenceless dogs inside on disused land behind their home.
They are thought to be from different litters and are around eight weeks old.
After being assessed by a local vet two of the smaller puppies were found to be very weak and Inspector Conlon was immediately concerned that they might not make it.
They all had large worm burdens and were cold and hungry.
Ms Conlon said it was 'shocking' the pups were left in such a state.
“It’s unclear how long the puppies were left in the cold and rain and thanks to the kind-hearted people in the local community for getting in touch so we could give them the best chance of survival.
"It really is shocking how anyone could just dump any animal in a box and walk away”.
Thankfully the puppies, named Ross, Rachel, Joey, Monica, Phoebe and Janice are slowly getting stronger and will be monitored closely.
Once well enough, they will be transferred to the National Animal Centre in Longford for rehabilitation.
Fiona added: “People really need to consider the long-term commitments that owning a pet involves and this includes neutering, microchipping, vaccinations, treatment for parasites to begin with.
"If anyone has any information about how the puppies came to be there, please contact us at 1890 515 515 or email helpline@ispca.ie in confidence.
