A DESPERATE appeal has been made for help to care for a litter of seven puppies who were found abandoned in a wet cardboard box on a mountain pass in New Tredegar.

The seven pug-cross puppies were found abandoned in Blaenau Gwent on Tuesday, October 31. 

They have since passed into the care of Cotswold Dogs and Cats Home, who are currently providing the puppies with round-the-clock care, ensuring all of them are clean, warm, well-fed, well-loved, and receiving any medical care required. 

However, the estimated final cost of the medical care is £8,400. The centre is desperate for any help as the puppies will need constant care, which is putting an enormous financial strain on the charity. 

South Wales Argus: The puppies will need medical attention as well as constant love and careThe puppies will need medical attention as well as constant love and care (Image: Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home)Several of them have various serious health conditions, including umbilical hernias, which will require repair when they are neutered. A couple also have an underbite that may need medical intervention, but will be constantly monitored as they grow.

The puppies have been fondly dubbed 'the tree litter', as they have all been named after types of trees: Ash, Chestnut, Fern, Hazel, Maple, Oak and Willow.

Fundraising manager Haley Medlock said: "When the puppies arrived at the centre, it was all hands on deck! The puppies require a huge amount of love and care, which the team are working around the clock to provide.

"It breaks my heart to know that these puppies were abandoned, unwanted, and uncared for at such a young age. We are so thankful to the members of the public for finding them and taking them to a safe space before arriving in our care. They have so much love to give and will make the perfect companion for any lucky family.

"Their personalities are already shining! Willow, the smallest of the litter, is very affectionate and loves to curl up on your lap. Maple is the cheeky one of the bunch and will often chase her siblings around to ensure she has the best toy to play with.

"Despite having an awful start to life, we know they will learn to love and trust humans again."

You can donate to help the puppies here. 

The RSPCA is still appealing for anyone with first-hand information regarding the abandoned puppies to get in touch via 0300 123 8018 and quote 01177924.