IT IS believed that about 50 puppies found in two cars in Dublin on Tuesday evening were being sent to the UK from Irish puppy farms.
According to the Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), the find was one of the biggest in recent years.
Some of the dogs were suffering treatable conditions such as mange, ear mites, fleas, eye infections and parasitic infections.
Many of the puppies, found on the Old Malahide Road in the Coolock area, have had their tails docked, their dew claws removed and are receiving treatment for minor infections.
Several of the puppies are receiving special care as they were too young to be removed from their mothers.
None of the animals were microchipped, making it impossible to trace their original owners and breeders.
Two men were arrested at the scene and taken to Coolock Garda station. They were later released and are to appear in Dublin District Court on November 1st.
Gillian Bird, head of education, media and public relations for the DSPCA, said that such finds are especially problematic at this time of year. “We are not seeing huge amounts of it, but it is something that is always there, especially when it is coming up to Christmas and people want to give puppies as presents,” she said.
Ms Bird said the case was under investigation and the puppies, which include a mixture of spaniels, labradors and Jack Russell terriers, would not be rehomed until the investigation was compete. The public would be made aware when the dogs could be adopted.
“When the dogs are ready to go to new homes, we will put it up on our website and our Facebook page, so please do not get in contact with us looking to take any of the dogs home.”
If people are suspicious that there may be a puppy farm near them, they are encouraged to contact the DSPCA or their local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said Ms Bird.
“We would also say that you should not buy a dog just because you feel sorry for it or if it is not in a good condition. Take down all the details and where it is being sold and report it to us,” she said.
DSPCA chief executive Brian Gillen has asked people to be cautious of where they buy their dogs.
“Please be careful where you source your puppy. With so many online sources of pups these days, the public need to be vigilant,” he said.
“Do not buy from the boot of a car or a van and always arrange to meet the puppy with its parents at the breeder’s home,” he advised.
“The conditions the mother is living in is a good indication of the health and welfare of the animals.”