Dozens of puppies found in cardboard boxes under lorry as driver fined

Dozens of puppies have been rescued after being found under a lorry travelling from Northern Ireland to Scotland.

With the help of Police Scotland and the USPCA, the SSPCA rescued 24 puppies, which were being kept in cardboard boxes without water or suitable bedding.

A female lorry driver from County Monaghan in Ireland received a two-year disqualification order from transporting or dealing with animals following the incident.

She was also fined £400 after pleading guilty at Stranraer Sheriff Court to breaching the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, Section 24.

Now, a multi-agency, Scottish SPCA-led taskforce against the illegal and illicit puppy trade has been set up with partners across the UK, Ireland and Northern Ireland to combat the activity.

Scottish SPCA head of rescue and prevention, Laura McIntyre, said: “Although the low-welfare trade in puppies slowed due to the ending of lockdown and the cost of living crisis, we know that unscrupulous breeders are still out there targeting unsuspecting members of the public.

“Smuggled pups often look fine when they are purchased, but problems will begin to show at a later stage.

“Our message to the general public is do not buy online or from someone where it is impossible to verify where the dog is actually coming from.

“The only way this will disappear, and people stop profiteering at the expense of these dogs, is if the public demand it stops.

“If you have purchased a puppy who shows any signs of illness or distress, please take them to a vet immediately.”

Detective superintendent Steven Elliot of Police Scotland added: “We are committed to working with the SSPCA Pet Trade Taskforce and our partners to target those involved in the illicit puppy trade.

“These criminals are motivated by financial gain, with little or no regard for the animal’s welfare.

“We urge anyone considering buying a puppy to do so from a reputable breeder and to report any suspicions around illegal puppy trading to Police Scotland on 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

Advice on buying a puppy, from the SSPCA, can be found here.