Dog of a time for puppies

The three starving puppies found near Hood Aerodrome, Masterton.

It was a week of poor fortune for dogs in Wairarapa, which attracted plenty of sympathy online.

Thames the police dog remains missing in the Tararuas, while several abandoned puppies were found around Masterton.

The first story regarding Thames received more than 7000 views, with most expressing their hopes he would be found safely.

Nalini Baruch wondered if all search and rescue dogs should have a GPS beacon because "they are too valuable to be lost".

"All fingers and paws in our household crossed for the safe return of this amazing animal," posted Renee Lang.

In contrast, three starving puppies, which had been abandoned, received nothing but condemnation -- and over 6000 views. Many were puzzled by the response of the SPCA and Masterton District Council's dog pound, with the latter taking the puppies in a bid to find their owners.

The authorities are obliged to locate owners of "stray" animals but many felt it was clear the owner didn't want them. "Poor pups," said Chevy Laxon-Moss. "Don't give them back. Re-home them to a loving family."

Jackie Samways said: "Don't let them go back, the poor dogs have had enough ill treatment by a human being -- if you can call them that."

Most were pretty plain about what they thought of the people who dumped the pups.

"No polite words to describe low life cruel people that can dump animals like this," said Andrea Follet.

"Just no excuse, they should be publicly humiliated if they are found. If you're desperate there's huha or SPCA, you absolute losers. Good luck wee pups, hope you end up happy like my rescue pup."