Dog rescued after being found abandoned at North Staffordshire railway station

By The Editor 7th Apr 2025

The RSPCA is appealing for help to trace two people who allegedly left a matted dog on the platform of Kidsgrove Railway Station in February. (RSPCA)
The RSPCA is appealing for help to trace two people who allegedly left a matted dog on the platform of Kidsgrove Railway Station in February. (RSPCA)

The RSPCA is appealing for help to trace two people who allegedly left a matted dog on the platform of a railway station in North Staffordshire in February.

The female poodle cross was seen running up and down platform three at Kidsgrove Station after a man and a woman reportedly got on a train with two other dogs, before they were heard telling her to "sit" and "wait." They then departed and left her behind.

The incident, which took place around 2.45pm on Sunday 16 February, was witnessed by two members of the public who stopped to help the poodle and took her to the RSPCA's Stapeley Grange cattery and wildlife centre in Nantwich.

Two members of the public took the female poodle cross, 'Sprinkles,' to RSPCA's Stapeley Grange cattery and wildlife centre in Nantwich (RSPCA).

She was seen by a vet and made comfortable overnight before being transferred to the charity's Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for further specialist treatment.

Her heavily matted coat was described as being 'pungent' and she had to be sedated so it could be clipped and detangled.

Kisgrove station where Sprinkles was abandoned. (Photo: Nub News)

Thankfully, she has since made a full recovery and was cared for at the RSPCA's Southport, Ormskirk & District Branch animal centre and has since been adopted. 

The RSPCA was hopeful that CCTV at the station might have been able to provide crucial information but unfortunately this was not retrievable.

RSPCA animal rescue officer, Fay Bowers, told Nub News: "Sprinkles is a lovely natured dog, all she wanted was a fuss and lots of cuddles.

Sprinkle's heavily matted coat was described as being 'pungent' and she had to be sedated so it could be clipped and detangled (RSPCA).

"Witnesses said she was seen running up and down the platform as the train pulled away, utterly confused by what was happening to her.

"She was underweight and her coat was smelly and matted with thick dreadlocks.

"Thankfully, with the right care, she was soon back to full health and adopted quickly.

"Members of the public who have reported what they saw happen were understandably shocked, and we'd like to thank the caring people who stopped to help.  

"We were hoping there might have been some CCTV, but unfortunately it can't be accessed.

Anyone who recognises Sprinkles or saw the incident, which happened on 16 February is urged to contact the RSPCA's appeals line on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 01450517.

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