Two puppies were found crammed into the back of a van without water and ventilation at Dublin Port.
The troubling discovery came this morning during a routine check conducted by Revenue officials this morning around 7.30 am.
The pooches were found in a "very distressed" state as the temperature inside the van was a scorching 20C.
There was no access to fresh water and it is feared that they would have remained in the sealed van for the entire journey on the ferry, plus the distance to their destination in the UK.
The puppies, one a terrier cross and the other a retriever cross, are about eight weeks of age.
The pooches, who have been named Solero and Summer, are now being cared for by the DSPCA.
A spokeswoman for the animal charity said: "Both puppies were microchipped but the chips are not registered on any database. Neither puppy had a vaccination card/pet passport.
"They are receiving veterinary care for possible dehydration, parasites and are being tested for viral infections.
"The case is under investigation by the DSPCA and as a result, the puppies are not available for rehoming or fostering at this time.
"The DSPCA would like to thank Revenue Officers at Dublin Port for their vigilance and their continued efforts to end this cruel trade."
