AN ongoing operation to 'secure the safety and welfare' of animals near Pembroke Dock has seen more than 50 dogs rescued to date.

Dogs Trust vans, including a dog ambulance, arrived at a site on Ferry Lane, yesterday, January 29.

Dyfed-Powys Police were also on the scene.

Yesterday, The Dogs Trust said that 37 dogs had been removed from the site.

LATEST: More than 200 animals rescued from site allegedly connected with illegal slaughterhouse

In an updated statement issued today, January 30, The Dogs Trust said: “On Tuesday 29 January, we assisted Pembrokeshire County Council, and Dyfed-Powys Police in attending to dogs whose welfare has potentially been compromised at a premises near Pembroke Dock.

“More than 50 dogs were removed from the site and Dogs Trust staff were on hand to ensure that affected dogs were safely retrieved and transported with care to council premises in our specially equipped Animal Ambulance.

“The health and welfare of the dogs is our priority and we will do all we can to assist Pembrokeshire County Council.

“If anyone is concerned about any specific dogs that they think may be involved they can contact the Animal Health Team at Pembrokeshire County Council on 01437 764 551.

“As the investigation is ongoing we can’t go into any further detail at this time.”

Yesterday, Pembrokeshire County Council said: "Pembrokeshire County Council can confirm that an operation has been ongoing today (Tuesday) to recover a number of animals whose welfare had been potentially compromised.”

The spokesman added: "The local authority has made arrangements to re-site the animals in suitable accommodation.”

The operation followed previous reports of the illegal slaughter of animals and the production of ‘smokies’.

That investigation is ongoing.

A report of the initial raid, with distressing images, may be seen here

The RSPCA said yesterday: “We have not been involved today [January 29] and we understand that other agencies are leading on this matter but we stand ready to offer any support we can.

“We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare - or work with other agencies.

“A lot of the time issues will be dealt with by advice and education and it is not always appropriate to publicise this information for legal reasons.”

Further pictures have been taken on site today, January 30.

More to follow…