Dozens of puppies have been rescued from the back of a lorry with “life-threatening” diseases.
The SSPCA were called to the ferry port at Cairnryan after being alerted by a member of the public who heard puppies crying from inside a lorry.
24 cockapoo and cavapoo puppies were discovered in a “dire situation” confined under the lorry in cardboard boxes and without any food or water.
After being taken to one of the charity’s rescue and rehoming centres for immediate veterinary care, they were found to be suffering from severe ear mites and other life-threatening diseases.
The puppies are now “safe and receiving the necessary treatment until they’re healthy enough for new homes”.
The charity has estimated that the cost of their rescue and ongoing care to be around £25,000 and have appealed to the public for help.
A SSPCA spokesperson said: “We estimate the cost of their rescue and ongoing care to be around £25,000, nearly half of what it costs to run the Society every day.
“We never receive government funding, despite our enforcement authority and rely solely on the generosity of the public to support our work.
“If you can help us in any way to meet the significant cost of this rescue please donate today.
“We also urge anyone with information about this incident to reach out to us confidentially on 03000 999 999.
“Please note that we are not currently taking rehoming applications for these puppies as they are receiving ongoing care.”
Donations can be made to the fundraiser here.
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