13 puppies were seized at Dublin Port yesterday evening in a joint operation by Customs, Gardaí and the DSPCA.

The 11 females and 2 males are a mixture of Rottweilers, terriers and other small breeds and were destined for the UK market.

The DSPCA said the illegal puppy trade is attempting to smuggle dogs and puppies out of Ireland without the correct paper work or vaccination records.

The animal society said the puppies will not be rehomed before Christmas.

Anyone wishing to adopt a puppy should visit www.dspca.ie/AdoptaPet or email foster@dspca.ie

The DSPCA Christmas appeal is available at www.dspca.ie