Illegally traded puppies seized in cross border operation

USPCA Welfare Officers played a key role in Operation Delphin, a multiagency initiative intended to bring an end to the illegal trade in pups and it was USPCA intelligence that led to the seizure of a consignment of ten pups by colleagues in the Scottish SPCA.

A spokesperson said the creatures, which began life in puppy farms in the Republic of Ireland, were rescued in the port of Cairnryan having been ferried there by dealers using their route of choice through Northern Ireland. The puppies were clearly far too young to travel and were not accompanied by proper paperwork.

“The USPCA are committed to ending to this unseen abuse of animals,” the spokesperson added.

The Investigator assigned to Operation Delphin stated: “The loss of this consignment represents a hit of around £8,000 to the dealer. But coordinating successful rescues comes at a significant cost to this charity. The more resources at our disposal the more effective we can be in ending the shameful suffering caused by the treatment of young pups as commodities and not as companion animals. Please help us shine a light on this unseen exploitation of vulnerable creatures taking place day and daily on our doorstep. Donations to the cause can be made through our website www.uspca.co.uk.”

The animals seized have now been vet checked and returned to a respected welfare organisation in their country of origin. They are now in good hands and will be found caring homes.