Four of the 10 puppies found dumped in the trash by an Auckland truck driver have died, after an emotional and difficult rescue.
Marty, Marbel, Maggie and Meg have died, and there are concerns for a fifth puppy, Max.
It comes after the shocking discovery made by a rubbish truck driver while doing her rounds in the Papakura and Hunua area last week.
The driver was preparing to compact the rubbish in the back of her truck when she heard noises.
To her surprise the small puppies were found wet and cold inside a fabric shopping bag, with their umbilical cords still attached and sitting in a puddle of dirty water.
Savings Hopes Foundation got the call from the driver and came to collect the puppies to foster them out.
It shared emotional news on their Facebook page, much to the upset of the Auckland community.
"They were loved even for the short time and will be in our hearts and not forgotten," the post reads.
"We all knew it would be a battle and the fosters have been incredible but now we are extremely heartbroken."
More than 100 Facebook users took to the comments to share their heartbreak and sadness.
"At least these babies knew love, care and compassion even if for a short time," one user said.
"I'm just glad they passed away in a loving environment, knowing not all humans are bad."
"How can the horrible person who did this live with themselves?" another Facebook user asked.
