“It’s senseless why someone would want to bring harm upon these young pups,” Plunkett said.
“I’d like to acknowledge those members of the public who called police immediately, allowing us to prevent further harm.”
The 44-year-old man was charged with ill-treatment under the Animal Welfare Act and was due to appear in the Auckland District Court.
The puppies are believed to be between 4 and 6 months old and of Staffordshire bull terrier type.
The puppies are now at one of Auckland Council’s Animal Management shelters. Photo / Supplied
Auckland Council’s regional shelter manager Nikki Cripps said this type of incident is all too common.
“These puppies didn’t ask to be born and they certainly didn’t deserve to end up in danger,” she said.
“If people would simply desex their dogs we wouldn’t see this endless cycle of unwanted litters and needless suffering. Dog ownership is not a casual commitment, it’s a serious lifelong responsibility.
“Registration, desexing, microchipping and proper care aren’t optional extras – they’re the bare minimum. If you can’t commit to those four things, then you should not have a dog. The cost of neglect isn’t just a bylaw breach – it’s terrified, vulnerable puppies paying the price.”