SPCA looking into reported abandonment of five puppies in box in East Islip

The Suffolk County SPCA said Thursday it is looking into the reported abandonment of five puppies left in a box in a wooded area of East Islip.

Chief Roy Gross of the animal protection group said he's aware of the case and is trying to get in touch with the New York Bully Crew, an animal rescue group in Patchogue, where the pups ended up safely.

"We are looking into it," Gross said. "We're trying to find out what the circumstances are with the case."

News 12 Long Island reported Wednesday that the puppies were found by a man who was bicycling with his son near a wooded area.

Vince Abbatiello of East Islip told the station he saw a white or silver pickup stop and leave a small box on the side of the road on Tuesday. He found the puppies inside, coated in their own filth, News 12 said.

Abbatiello took the puppies to the New York Bully Crew, where they are being nursed back to health, News 12 said.

Gross said his office has not heard from the rescue group but that the abandonment is animal cruelty.

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"Absolutely a criminal charge," Gross said.

Anyone with information can call the Suffolk County SPCA at 631-382-7722.