South Australia has been rocked by reports of puppies and cats being allegedly abandoned in separate incidents.
Seven red heeler puppies were discovered after they were purportedly abandoned at Port Adelaide, while two cats were allegedly left on a highway in the state’s Mid North.
According to witnesses, a blue Great Wall utility was seen pulling up near Moonta Road at Port River around 3pm on Saturday, March 30.
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An individual, yet to be identified, allegedly dumped the puppies on the riverbank before fleeing the scene.
The puppies, five of which were found running along the beach and some pulled from the water, were rescued by police.
The puppies were taken to a veterinarian for examination before being transferred to a rescue organisation for rehoming.
Descriptions of the vehicle involved have been provided, with police appealing to the public for any information regarding the distinctive blue utility with custom rear racks.
In a separate incident captured on CCTV footage, two cats were reportedly abandoned on Thiele Highway near the Sutherlands Hotel, approximately 125 kilometres northeast of Adelaide, on Wednesday, May 1.
The footage captured a light-coloured, four-door hatchback stopping along the roadside, with a woman from the vehicle releasing the cats before driving away.
While one of the cats has since been captured and is under the care of the person who recorded the incident, the whereabouts of the other feline remain unknown.
A spokesperson from RSPCA said abandoning an animal is an offence under South Australia’s Animal Welfare Act.
“Anyone found guilty can face up to two years imprisonment or a $20,000 fine.”
The police and RSPCA are urging anyone with relevant information, including dashcam footage, to come forward and assist in the investigation.
You can report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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