TAVISTOCK police worked in partnership with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and Environmental Health to remove a large number of dogs from an address in Tavistock.

Following the incident, a police spokesperson advised members of the public to make sure they check the reputation of a breeder before they buy an animal.

‘People should be aware of the background of breeders and make sure they know what to look for,’ they said. ‘If anyone has concerns regarding dog breeders then they should inform the RSPCA in the first instance, then the RSPCA will contact the police.’

To report animal cruelty or for advice about general pet care, animal welfare law, animal rehoming or vet care call the RSPCA’s 24-hour help line on 0300 1234 999 or visit www.rspca.org.uk