THE ISPCA is appealing to the public for help with donations and rehoming after taking in over 100 dogs in just three days.

A total of 86 dogs, including 23 puppies, were removed by ISPCA Inspectors from an unlicensed dog breeding establishment in Co Roscommon following a visit by the Inspector and the county dog warden last Friday. The dogs were being kept in very poor conditions and had only one person to care for them all. Nineteen of the dogs were suffering from a variety of health issues including mange, eye conditions and ear infections and are now receiving veterinary treatment.

A further 17 puppies were removed from a house on Thursday where the owner had allowed his dogs to breed without consideration for the consequences. All of the dogs will need to be vaccinated, neutered and microchipped before being responsibly rehomed in Ireland.

The dogs, including Shih Tzu’s, Cocker Spaniels, Jack Russell terriers, Pugs, French bulldogs and other various mixed breeds, are currently being cared for at the ISPCA’s animal centres in Longford and Donegal and will not be available for rehoming for several weeks. “Twenty five dogs have been transferred to our friends at Dogs Trust and we are very grateful for their assistance.” The ISPCA is asking the public to report their suspicions about unlicensed dog breeders to the ISPCA’s National Animal Cruelty Helpline 1890 515515 or to the local authority.

NEUTERING

The ISPCA is also asking pet owners to ensure that they get their dogs neutered to avoid unwanted litters. Senior ISPCA Inspector Kevin McGinley said: “The ISPCA is grateful to have secured the removal of all dogs from unlicensed premises. With so many dogs in our care, we are appealing to the public to support us financially with this challenge and by offering responsible homes for the pups and dogs. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Roscommon County Council and the county Dog Warden for their assistance.”

Inspector Karen Lyons said: “I would urge the public to continue to report these establishments. Due to the inadequate care, these dogs were clearly in distress. We are excited for the future of these dogs where they will go on to caring and loving homes once they are available for rehoming.”

If you can support the ISPCA, please make a single donation or consider becoming a regular donor by visiting www.ispca.ie or text ISPCA to 50300 to donate €4. Each text costs €4.