Puppies rescued from underneath a lorry at Larne port

by Chloe St John

Seventeen puppies have been rescued after being found hidden beneath a lorry at Larne Port.

The Dachshunds, Cock-a-poos, and Springer Spaniels were in the process of being smuggled to Scotland.

They've now been re-homed in time for Christmas thanks to Mid Antrim Animal Sanctuary, Almost Home and the USPCA.

(One of the rescued puppies)

Mrs Patricia Allen, Head of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Public Protection, Health and Wellbeing said:

“Deciding whether to get a puppy or dog is a big decision. We recommend that you give the commitment proper thought before buying a puppy."

“We recommend carrying out some research, in particular finding the right dog breed for you, and ensuring you purchase your dog either through a charity or a registered breeder."

“Anyone who decides to get a dog becomes responsible for that animal and will need to know about the legal requirements of owning a dog, including licencing their dog and meeting its welfare needs.”

"The Council has also been working with DAERA and Belfast City Council in recent weeks to detect more illegal movement of dogs at ports across Northern Ireland."