The RSPCA is appealing for information after Reggie, an eight-year-old pug, was abandoned at its Derby rescue centre. The dog was left by an individual claiming to be a friend of the owner, who then disappeared. The RSPCA seeks leads about the owner.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after an eight-year-old pug was abandoned at its Derby rescue centre on Friday, March 21.

Reggie, a fawn-and-black pug, was brought into the RSPCA Derby animal centre on Abbey Street (DE22 3SJ) at around 10am by an individual claiming to be a friend of the owner. The person alleged they had been looking after the dog for six weeks but disappeared while staff went to fetch paperwork, leaving Reggie behind.

RSPCA officials are now seeking to identify a man who was present at the time and may have key information regarding the incident.

Animal Rescue Officer Sophie Taylor urged anyone with knowledge about Reggie’s owner to come forward.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after Reggie, an eight-year-old pug, was abandoned at its Derby rescue centre. The dog was left by an individual claiming to be a friend of the owner, who then disappeared. The RSPCA seeks leads about the owner. | RSPCA

placeholder image — The RSPCA is appealing for information after Reggie, an eight-year-old pug, was abandoned at its Derby rescue centre. The dog was left by an individual claiming to be a friend of the owner, who then disappeared. The RSPCA seeks leads about the owner. | RSPCA

“This poor little pup has been left all alone with no owner to care for him – it must be a scary and overwhelming experience for him,” Taylor said.

“It’s heartbreaking to think of him being confused and abandoned if he’s used to being in a home environment, especially as an older dog. Thankfully, he appears to be coping well under RSPCA care.”

The RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line can be reached at 0300 123 8018 for those who have any relevant information.

After being transferred into RSPCA care, Reggie was checked by a veterinarian. While generally in good health, he was found to have muscle wastage and a lack of feeling in his back legs—likely a chronic issue. His microchip remains registered to his breeder, and he has not been neutered.

Reggie’s case is part of a troubling trend. The RSPCA reports a sharp rise in pet abandonment cases, with 1,972 incidents recorded in the first month of this year alone—an increase of over 34% compared to January 2024.

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, including pugs, French bulldogs, and English bulldogs, are particularly at risk. Their popularity has led to extensive breeding for exaggerated facial features, which in turn results in severe health issues such as chronic breathing problems, difficulty exercising, and shortened lifespans. Many owners, unprepared for the extensive medical care these dogs require, ultimately surrender them to shelters.

Ashleigh Brown, RSPCA Scientific & Policy Manager for Companion Animals, stressed the importance of responsible breeding and ownership.

“Too many people aren’t aware of the significant problems these animals face – which can even include difficulty with basic daily activities such as breathing freely, sleeping in a natural position, playing, or exercising,” Brown said. “We remain concerned about the welfare implications of selective breeding for exaggerated features. It’s distressing for the animals and costly for owners, contributing to the rising numbers of abandoned dogs.”

She urged potential dog owners to consider adopting a rescue dog rather than purchasing a puppy from breeders who perpetuate these health problems.

For those struggling to care for their pets, the RSPCA offers a range of support services. The charity has launched a dedicated cost-of-living hub to connect owners with resources, as well as partnerships with over 200 pet food banks across the UK.

Animal lovers are encouraged to take part in Animal Futures: The Big Conversation, an RSPCA initiative aimed at shaping the future of animal welfare in the UK. The charity emphasizes that decisions made today will impact the lives of animals in the future.

For more information or to contribute to the conversation, visit the RSPCA website.

The RSPCA launched a dedicated cost of living hub to signpost help available for owners and the charity also has more than 200 Pet Food Bank Partnerships across the country.