The three sick puppies came into the care of the Essex South, Southend and District of the RSPCA in late June after being abandoned by their previous owner. The eight-week-old cockerpoos were rushed to the vets where they were diagnosed with parvovirus.
The highly contagious virus attacks the gut and causes severe diarrhea and vomiting.
Veterinary staff fight to save the lives of the puppies, now named Huey, Louie and Chloe.
Kathy Butler, manager of the RSPCA branch, said: “Poor Huey is the weakest of the three and has trouble holding his head up or keeping his food down.
“The staff has fed him little and often, but his small 1 kg body has been battered by this terrible virus.
“Louie and Chloe are a bit stronger and more cheerful, but have shown no interest in eating or drinking alone, so they are still tube and syringe fed by the staff.
“They had three days of expensive antiviral medication, as well as ongoing fluids and supportive care.
“Some of the staff had to feed Huey every two hours and then sit with him to hold his head up. It was really touch and go.”
The RSPCA center has since admitted a fourth cockerpoo puppy with parvovirus symptoms.
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The branch has started with a fundraiser for the puppies’ vet bill, which is already over £5,300.
Ms Butler added: “We will be raising money to recoup some of the costs of the puppies’ veterinary care, but we are also appealing to local animal lovers to help by donating to our emergency call.
“We are so grateful to everyone who can support us and help help these innocent souls, every pound helps.”