Six tiny puppies have been found smothered in thick oil after being illegally smuggled into the UK from Romania.
The pups were discovered in the back of a van in Dover, after a journey that would have taken over 24 hours.
The puppies, which are around 11 weeks old, are a selection of different breeds - three Maltese, two Havanese and one Bichon Frise.
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Taken in by Dogs Trust, the terrified pups were found in a horrific condition, coated in oil and suffering from diarrhoea.
Paula Boyden, the Dogs Trust's veterinary director, said: "It is absolutely heartbreaking that we continue to see dogs being illegally imported into the country, often in terrible conditions to make huge profits for cruel puppy smugglers.
"We might be in the midst of a pandemic, but these devious sellers will still use every trick in the book to scam unsuspecting dog lovers."
Dogs Trust is warning people of the risks associated with buying puppies online and essentially being 'dogfished'.
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With the demand for puppies spiking during lockdown, the charity has rescued a number of smuggled dogs, on their way to unsuspecting owners.
This includes 12 heavily pregnant mums, who have given birth to 53 puppies worth £100,000.
"Sadly, it's all too easy to be 'dogfished' and it can be very difficult to know if you are buying a puppy that has been smuggled," added Paula.
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Paula also advised potential buyers to always see a puppy with its mum - and more than once, something which has been difficult during lockdown.
"We would advise you to always see a puppy with and interacting with their mum and go and see it more than once," she said.
"Ask lots of questions, and ask to see vital paperwork, such as a puppy contract. If you have any doubts or it feels too good to be true, as hard as it may be, walk away and report the seller."
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We hope these beautiful babies get the loving forever home they deserve, after such a horrible ordeal.
Topics: Life News, Animals, Dogs, Puppies