A LIMERICK animal charity has appealed for donations after taking in a large number of dogs seized by Gardaí in County Limerick.
Limerick Animal Welfare (LAW) made the plea on their social media accounts after eight dogs and eight puppies were seized by Bruff Gardaí at a property in the area.
According to the post, the dogs, who were found by Gardaí investigating a separate issue, had no access to food or water, no bedding, and no proper shelter.
The charity say having such a huge number of dogs come to the shelter at once puts a “huge strain” on them.
“This is a huge strain on the sanctuary to take in so many dogs at once. The dogs are now all under the care of LAW,” the post said.
“The dogs will all need flea and worm doses. They will need a food plan to bring them up to normal weight, vaccinations, and neutering when they are well enough.”
LAW says the dogs “have been neglected for a long time”, with bones sticking out and ribs clearly visible on all the animals.
This comes after LAW director Marion Fitzgibbon spoke to the Limerick Post calling for greater legislation around puppy farms.
Speaking to the Limerick Post last week, Marion said: “There’s no legislation really in place for puppy farmers, it’s just recommendations and best practice recommended, and they seem to be able to breed up to 100 bitches or more,” she said.
“Even for the breeders that are registered, the legislation is very loose.”
Officially opened in 2007, Marion says LAW’s purpose-built sanctuary in Kilfinane aims to create a home for dogs who have never known the comfort of a warm bed or nutritious food.
The LAW sanctuary has underfloor heating, warm kennels, and music playing for the dogs to help them relax and feel safe.
The most recent seizure of dogs at LAW have been cleaned up, treated for fleas, ticks and ear mites, and eye and chest infections.
LAW operates across all of County Limerick, responding to emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
As a registered charity, LAW operates with the support of the public. Donations can be made by phone on 063 91 110, by texting LAW4 50300, or online at LimerickAnimalWelfare.com.
