Puppies found in boxes at ferry port find new homes

Two dozen puppies discovered in boxes under a lorry at a ferry port in south-west Scotland have all been rehomed.

The Scottish SPCA described the incident at Cairnryan in January as one of the country's "most remarkable animal rescues".

The puppies - many with life-threatening diseases - were found cowering inside the lorry and taken to safety.

An investigation into the incident is continuing but the SSPCA said finding all the animals new homes was a "fantastic result".

Fostering and rehoming lead Anna O'Donnell said the discovery was not an "isolated incident".

"While these pups have found their forever homes there are many more animals in the Scottish SPCA's care who are looking for theirs," she said.

“We'd urge people thinking of rehoming an animal to have an open mind about the kind of pet you could give a home to.

"By talking to us and helping us get to know you, we can help you find the perfect match and an animal in need its forever home."

The SSPCA was called to the ferry port at Cairnryan at the end of January after being alerted by a member of the public who heard the puppies crying from underneath a lorry.

The cockapoo and cavapoo pups had been hidden inside cardboard boxes in dire conditions without any food or water.

It is estimated the cost of nursing them back to care was about £25,000 but a Crowdfunder raised the majority of the money needed in a little over two days.

One of the puppies who had the most serious health condition - a heart murmur - has found a new home in Linlithgow.

Jemma Chessar adopted Piper - now called Skye.

"Our whole family adore her – she has made our home complete," she said.

"We love going on beach walks and teaching Skye new tricks.

"She loves every minute of her life.”

Fellow pup Indie, who was named after Indiana Jones, is also flourishing in his new home.

New owner Sharon Davison said: "Indie has bounced into our lives and stole our hearts.

“My husband and I were very fortunate to be given the opportunity to adopt Indie and he came home with us in February.

“He has settled in so well and is such a lovely natured little furball."