Puppies are orphaned after mum is hit by car

A LITTER of puppies have been left orphaned after their mum was hit by a car.

The 10 cute boxer-cross pups were given to The Blue Cross adoption centre in Kimpton on Wednesday and were named after the victorious England rugby squad.

It is hoped that some of the team’s magic, which saw them win its Six Nations clash with Italy on Saturday, will turn around the fortunes of six-week-old pups Johnno, Tindall, Ashton, Flood, Wilko, Foden, Easter, Sheridan, Hartley and Haskell,

Five have already been reserved and the other pups have been moved onto The Blue Cross centre in Lewknor, Oxfordshire, where it is hoped loving owners will also snap them up.

Emma Pannell, deputy manager of The Blue Cross adoption centre in Kimpton, said: “At just six weeks old, these pups are such little bruisers that it seemed perfect to name them after rugby players. They eat all the time and love to pass a ball around or pile into a scrum.

“The puppies have had a difficult start in life, but after England’s Six Nations victory against Italy we’re hoping some of their success will rub off on these little ones.”

When the puppies’ mum died, the owner of the bouncy puppies spent three weeks hand-feeding them six times a day before bringing them into The Blue Cross. Now they are fed four puppy meals a day and are growing fast.

Emma added: “Like many rugby players, these puppies are going to be big and boisterous so they’d like a home where they can run around and play lots of games. They’ll need regular training to keep them in check but in return they’ll give you love and plenty of cuddles.”

Although all five of the pooches have been reserved at the centre in Kimpton, there are plenty of other dogs, cats and rabbits looking for homes. Anyone wanting to adopt an animal or make a donation should contact the centre on 01438 832232 or visit www.bluecross.org.uk.