Four puppies have been seized in Paisley as part of a probe into an international puppy farm operation.
Animal welfare charity the Scottish SPCA launched an operation after being alerted to a suspect seller in the town.
Tragically, one of the animals was in such poor health that it has since passed away.
Police and SSPCA officers swooped to rescue the pups after a tip-off.
The operation is part of a wider investigation into illegal dog breeding farms in Ireland.
Unvaccinated dogs are being shipped to the UK for sale and the animals often have parvovirus, a highly contagious viral illness that can be lethal to young dogs.
An undercover Scottish SPCA special investigations officer told the Express: “We are closely investigating a large volume of puppies which are being shipped over from Ireland by suspected puppy dealers.
Paisley woman stranded in Thailand being treated for viral brain infection
“As a result of these investigations, we seized four puppies in Paisley .
“Unfortunately, the welfare of these puppies has been seriously compromised by their breeding and we believe they are unvaccinated.
“One of the pups has since passed away from suspected parvovirus and the others are showing symptoms.
“We are urging the public to do proper research before buying a puppy and remind them to never meet a seller in a public place or have them bring the dog to you.
“If you suspect a puppy may be from a puppy farm or illegal breeder, please visit saynotopuppydealers.co.uk and call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
“Our investigations into this are currently ongoing.”
St Mirren legend's medal goes to auction
The dogs in this case were rescued on Monday and are believed to have been Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross pups.
The Kennel Club describes puppy farms as “a high volume breeder who breeds puppies with little or no regard for the health and welfare of the puppies or their parents.
“A puppy farmer’s main intent is profit.
“As a result they typically separate puppies from their mothers too early and ignore guidelines about the maximum frequency of litters.”
Inspector Tracy Harkins, from Paisley’s community policing team, is pleased to have supported the SSPCA in the operation.
She said: “I am delighted that we were able to assist the SSPCA in recovering the four pups.
Drunk husband attacked wife in row over vaping
”These callous and unscrupulous dealers have no concerns about the welfare of the puppies and are purely out to make
money.
“Please ensure that you attend the breeder’s kennels or home address before buying a new
pup.
“If you have any doubts about a breeder or the welfare of a puppy please contact the SPCA on the number provided.”
