Gardaí have seized 32 dogs and four horses during planned searches in the Baldoyle area of north Co. Dublin as part of ongoing investigations into puppy farms and related criminal activity.

The operation was carried out by the DMR North Divisional Crime Task Force based in Santry, supported by local detectives, uniformed Gardaí and animal rescue agencies.

The dogs seized included Chihuahuas, Jack Russells and Pugs. On examination, six of the Chihuahuas were found to be pregnant.

All of the animals seized are now in the care of appropriate animal rescue agencies. There were no planned arrests in this phase of the investigation.

The potential value of the dogs recovered is estimated to be in excess of €150,000.

Dogs Trust petition to stop illegal sale of dogs

Dogs Trust is getting close to its 15,000 signature target on a recent petition it set up. 14,483 dog lovers across Ireland have already signed to stop the illegal sale of dogs.

The petition and campaign, #SoldAPup, aims to put an end to illegal and misleading adverts, ensure puppy breeders are traceable and accountable and to stamp out cruel breeding practices.

The dog welfare charity says that “sadly, for too many puppies and their mums, their Christmas story won’t have a happy beginning – or a happy ending”.

“Your signature and your voice will join with thousands of others across Ireland, to stop the illegal sale of dogs. In puppy farms, mums are kept as breeding machines, forced to churn out litter after litter. The health and welfare of mum and her pups sacrificed for profit.

For too long, unscrupulous breeders have operated in the shadows, evading penalty, or punishment. But new laws introduced in February 2020 have banned the illegal sale, supply and advertising of dogs.

“Now we need your help to make sure these laws are enforced.”

The charity also says that in the run up to Christmas, thousands of puppies will be advertised for sale – and while some will come from reputable breeders, some will come from sellers who “care nothing for the lives and welfare of puppies and their mums”.

“Anyone selling six or more pets must register and display their seller number and commercial dog breeders must display their dog breeding establishment registration number along with the dog’s microchip number on advertisements. This means all sellers will be traceable.”