Nottinghamshire Police have seized 53 dogs from a property in Worksop following a raid on a suspected illegal puppy farm. A 33-year-old man was arrested in connection with the operation, which took place last Friday.
Disturbing images from the scene show spaniels packed into tiny purpose-built cages stacked on top of each other in a garage. Several adult dogs were found sharing cramped enclosures, while mothers and their young pups were forced to sleep on beds of wood shavings.
The raid was triggered after intelligence was gathered from buyers who reported their puppies fell seriously ill shortly after being brought home. One puppy tested positive for canine parvovirus and was later euthanised.
PC Kerry Eames of the Bassetlaw North Neighbourhood Policing Team said: 'Officers executed a search warrant at a property in Worksop and removed 53 dogs from the address due to welfare concerns. Police also seized a dog believed to be an XL bully type, alongside several mobile phones and other evidential items.'
The rescued dogs are being cared for by the Animal Welfare Investigations Project (AWIP) in isolation while the charity seeks permanent homes. The AWIP's Serena James said: 'We have spoken with members of the public who reported paying substantial sums for puppies which later became seriously ill, resulting in significant veterinary expenses and emotional distress.'
Jacob Lloyd, chief executive of AWIP, urged prospective owners to consider adoption from reputable rescues: 'There are thousands of dogs across the country currently waiting for permanent and loving homes.' The investigation into unlawful breeding and sale of puppies continues.
