More than 200 dogs rescued from puppy farm

More than 200 dogs have been rescued from an illegal puppy farm in Wales as rogue breeders were getting pets ready to cash in on the Christmas demand.

Cockerpoos, Labradors and Cocker Spaniels were among animals found with infected bites and matted fur infested with maggots when officers went inside.

Rescuers believe the puppy farmer was 'gearing up for the Christmas puppy market' with a string of popular breeds to sell.

The raid in Carmarthenshire, Wales, comes after a seven-month investigation by Trading Standards Wales and National Trading Standards.

One Cocker Spaniel, named Smarties, needed immediate treatment for 'severely infected bite wounds and a serious ear infection'.

Other breeds at the farm included Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus and Cavaliers. Officers say they rescued 15 dogs with injury or serious suffering due to the conditions.

Breeding bitches, stud dogs and newly-born puppies were signed over by the alleged illegal puppy farmer and investigations are now ongoing.