Fifty-six dogs being smuggled to the UK were discovered in a van at Dublin Port, Ireland just days after 50 puppies were found in the back of two cars near Dublin. The latest seizure was made Thursday night when Revenue's customs officers and the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) stopped and searched a van at the port.

The latest seizure of dogs includes mainly small breeds, aged between six and 10 weeks. The puppy-mill pups were destined for the UK where they would have been sold to unsuspecting owners. After being examined, the puppies were found to be in good condition. A 46-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has since been released. Police are continuing their investigation.

The DSPCA said that the two failed puppy trafficking attempts are a good reminder to the government that animal welfare laws need to be strengthened in order to thwart such illegal activities. "None of the seized puppies were microchipped or had any form of identification or vaccination papers which makes tracing their breeders impossible," said a spokesman. The organization is calling on compulsory microchipping to crack down on puppy mills in Ireland. 

The puppies seized earlier in the week may be ready for adoption within 10 days. The 56 new puppies will likely be up for adoption shortly. Adoption details can be found on the DSCPA's website is at www.dspca.ie. Anyone wishing to offer a home to any of the puppies, they can register their interest by email to adopt@dspca.ie.

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• Dublin
• Ireland
• dog smuggling
• DSPCA