Florida authorities were shocked to discover a live puppy inside of a plastic bag that had been discarded in the trash.

The Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Animal Services assisted at the rescue. They say that the mother dog was on top of the trash bag, trying to free the puppy, according to the Associated Press.

Additional puppies were located in a nearby shed.

The mother and puppies are being cared for by animal services.

Police are searching for those responsible for abandoning the animals, and are asking for the public's help.

Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a reward of up to $3,000 and the Florida Voices for Animals is also offering a $500 reward for information leading to an arrest.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.