Twenty dogs rescued from 'shocking and inexcusable' abuse at Northumberland puppy farm

Around 20 dogs were rescued from the farm in Rothbury.

A joint operation between Northumbria Police and Northumberland County Council Animal Welfare saw around 20 dogs, which ranged from newborn puppies to fully-grown hounds, taken into care by officers.

New forever homes are now being sought for the rescued animals.

The search, which took place in Rothbury, was the result of a warrant executed by officers on Wednesday, March 4.

Northumbria Police said the dogs were living in 'appalling conditions'.

When they arrived at the premises, they found the dogs had been abandoned and were living in appalling conditions.

Northumbria Police officer Paul Sykes said: “Our partnership working has been crucial during this operation and I can’t thank the council enough for their hard work.

“We had an idea of the poor conditions we might find during the warrant, but to see it in real life was just awful.

“Those poor animals were being left to fend for themselves with no element of care or respect.

“Hopefully these gorgeous dogs can all find love and a forever family in a new home.”

A Northumberland County Council spokesperson added: “This is a shocking and inexcusable case of animal abuse and we are very keen to crack down on all sorts of illegal pet breeding in Northumberland.”

The owner responded to a police summons and is due to be prosecuted at a later date over a breach of a previous dog control order, the force added.

Authorities are urging anyone who suspects animal abuse to contact Animal Welfare on 0345 600 6400.