RSCPA investigating after puppies found dumped in bushland with their mouths taped shut

Australia Broadcast Center

14-07-2025

An investigation is underway after two puppies were found with their mouths taped shut in bushland in Ipswich, west of Brisbane.
The RSPCA says a puppy was found by a member of the public on Robin Street in Chuwar on Saturday with tape around its mouth.
A second dog evaded capture, but RSCPA inspectors returned on Sunday and lured the puppy with the help of its rescued littermate.
In a statement, the RSPCA said inspectors found sticky residue on each of the dogs' paws, which they said suggested their legs had also been bound.
RSPCA spokesperson Emma Lagoon said the puppies, believed to be about five months old, are now "safe and happy" in care.
"They're obviously a lot happier than they were when we were trying to catch them on the weekend," she said.
"They were really scared and timid at that time."
Ms Lagoon said it was a challenging situation for frontline staff.
"These situations are really distressing, not only for the animals involved, but trying to capture them and it takes a huge emotional toll on our frontline staff," she said.
"We really have to commend them for doing this tough gig, and we also want to thank the member of the public who helped us catch one of the dogs."
Ms Lagoon said dumping unwanted animals was unacceptable and doing so in "such a cruel way is not the answer".
"It's cruel, it's illegal," she said.
"There are always other options if people have unwanted animals. Instead of dumping them, they can surrender them, reach out to a rescue group."
Animal cruelty offences can attract penalties of more than $300,000 and jail sentences up to seven years.
Ms Lagoon said the RSPCA was hoping to track down the alleged offender.
"We're hoping that anyone that has more information will contact the RSPCA or 1300 ANIMAL, that will help with our investigation so that we can track down who's responsible for doing this and hold them to justice," she said.