Warning on dogs from illegal 'puppy farms'

Britons have been warned to be careful where they buy dogs after the second seizure in a week of animals from illegal Irish puppy farms destined for sale in the United Kingdom. The Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) said Friday it had received 56 puppies aged six to 10 weeks seized by police from a van bound for Britain at Dublin's port. Police had earlier this week found 36 animals in cars in Dublin, also from suspected illicit puppy farms. Media reports said those dogs included cocker and springer spaniels, Labradors and Jack Russells. The illegal farms may keep animals in poor conditions including a lack of medical care, socialisation and exercise, animal charities say. "This second seizure in a week has to make people aware of the problems buying from an unreliable source," said DSPCA head Brian Gillen. "Do not buy from the boot of a car or a van and always arrange to meet the puppy with its parents at the breeders' home -- the conditions the mother is living in is a good indication of the health and welfare of the animals." The latest seizure included many small breeds and none had microchips, identification or vaccination papers, the DSPCA said, calling for stronger animal welfare laws in Ireland. About 50,000 "farmed" puppies are trafficked into Britain from Ireland each year, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said in 2010. It has also highlighted what it says is lax regulation of dog breeders in Wales.