The DSPCA is caring for 18 puppies found in boxes in the boot of a car at Dublin Port.

The dogs were in the process of being illegally exported to the UK when they were seized by customs officials assisted by Department of Agriculture staff yesterday.

They were being transported in an unapproved vehicle with very poor ventilation and had no accompanying paper work.

The DSPCA says 16 of the pups are "reasonably well", one is "unwell" and one is "on a drip and fighting for his life".

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney confirmed that his officials and customs officers "had been engaged in a joint operation in recent times at ports with a view to stamping out this illegal trade".