60 dogs seized from suspected puppy farm in Cannock
More than 60 dogs were seized from a Staffordshire property which is believed to have been linked with a suspected puppy farm.
The animals were taken into Cannock District Council's possession following the raid in Cannock on Monday morning.
The council worked in partnership with Staffordshire Police and the Dogs Trust to carry out the operation.
A spokesperson for the Dogs Trust said: “We were proud to support Cannock Chase Council and Staffordshire Police today with the transportation of over 60 dogs from a local property.
“Dogs Trust staff were on hand throughout the operation to ensure that the dogs were safely retrieved from the property and transported to Cannock Chase Council, where they remain in their care.
“We will continue to support local authorities in the area as required to ensure the long-term welfare of the dogs seized.”
The raid was carried out following a court warrant, obtained by the council, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
The act states it is an offence to cause any "unnecessary suffering to any animal", according to the UK government's website.
The BBC reported that police said the raid was linked to a suspected puppy farm. It was reported that both dogs and puppies, and a number of different breeds, were found.
Cannock Council, which is leading the investigation, tweeted: "The Council executed a magistrates’ warrant granted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 at an address in Cannock this morning.
"With the support of Staffordshire Police and the Dogs Trust, 60 dogs were removed from the property and taken into the council’s possession."
