New Zealand authorities are appealing to locals for information after a box of newborn puppies was found dumped at a Whanganui beach.
According to SPCA Whanganui, the pint-sized pups were discovered at North Mole on Tuesday afternoon (January 26) by a person who was on their lunch break.
SPCA area manager Danny Auger said the puppies were less than a day old when found.
"He could hear a squeaking and followed the noise to a box - quite a distinctive medical fluids box which had nine newborn puppies inside," Auger said.
Advert
"Our vets have estimated that they were likely born the night before, making them less than 24 hours old when found."
Upon posting the news to their official Facebook page, SPCA was inundated with offers to help out the wee pups, with many saying they would happily adopt one.
Updating their followers today (January 28), the group said they were 'absolutely overwhelmed' at the offers.
"So many of you offered to open your home to look after them, so we wanted to give you all an update on how they're doing... and it's good news!" they. wrote
Advert
As luck would have it, the group revealed that following the litter's arrival, they were joined by another dog at the SPCA called Nanook,, who they said could serve as a potential surrogate for the puppies.
"She was so excited at the sight of them and has accepted them, and is feeding them well," they said.
Advert
"Unfortunately, the smallest of the litter passed away [on Wednesday] morning but the rest are thriving, though it is of course still very early days."
They continued: "Their chances are greatly improved under the care of a surrogate, and although the smallest passed away yesterday morning, as we'd shared with you all, the other eight are all thriving since Nanook took them in.
"Yesterday afternoon, Nanook and the pups all went into a foster home where they can be in a calm and dedicated environment while the pups grow big and strong.
"Thank you so much to every one of you who has wished them well and offered to help."
Advert
However, the shelter added that they were still searching for information in regards to who ditched the puppies in the first place, asking followers to 'please get in touch on 06 345 3369 if you know anything.'
Featured Image Credit: FacebookTopics: New Zealand, Animals, Dogs