The RSPCA is appealing for information after a 12-week-old puppy who could “barely stand” was found abandoned at the side of a road in Chesham.

The brown-and-white terrier, named Admiral Van Scruff by RSPCA staff, was found by a member of the public in Gladstone Road at around 6.45pm last Wednesday (July 19).

A man and a woman in a silver Mercedes Sprinter van were seen dumping the puppy before speeding away.

The dog’s feet were covered in faeces, and urine and his breathing was shallow when he was found.

RSPCA inspector Jaime Godfrey said: “The puppy was not in a good way. He is now being cared for at a local vets, where he is getting a lot of fuss and attention from the staff.

“It is very concerning that someone thought it would be acceptable to abandon a young, defenceless puppy like this. He was emaciated, dehydrated and his fur matted so clearly he has not been looked after well.

“The person who witnessed this was unable to get the registration number of the van so we are appealing for people to come forward with information, particularly if you recognise the dog.

“He is not microchipped so we really are relying on the public to help us with this.”

Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018. All calls are made in confidence.