LAST week, police in Ireland found dozens of puppies stuffed in boxes in the back of two cars.

It’s believed they were bred illegally on an Irish puppy farm and were destined for counties in the UK such as Lancashire.

Sadly, puppies on these farms are often raised in appalling conditions and can suffer from a range of problems such as mange, ear mites, fleas and eye infections and parasitic infections.

The animals often have little veterinary care and no exercise, stimulation or affection. Farmed dogs’ mental health is equally likely to be damaged during the crucial early weeks of development. Starving a dog of animal and human contact prevents it being socialised – learning how to relate to its owners and to other dogs.

We are urging people in Lancashire not to buy puppies from the boot of a car or a van, and always to arrange to meet the puppy with its parents at the breeder’s home.

The best place to find a dog is at a reputable re-homing centre, where there are many desperate animals looking for a second chance.

Will Wright, Four Paws.