A SCOTTISH animal charity has revealed they have received more than £35,000 in a public support after dozens of puppies were found hidden in the back of a lorry at a ferry port.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) said 24 puppies had been rescued after being found in the back of a lorry at Cairnryan ferry port in Dumfries and Galloway.

The puppies were in cardboard boxes without food or water and were found to have life-threatening diseases as well as suffering from severe ear mites.

The charity urged people to donate to its crowdfunding campaign, estimating the rescue costs and ongoing care of the puppies would amount to around £25,000.

The National:

The public has donated more than £35,880 in three days.

A SSPCA spokesperson said: “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed! While we’ve achieved this milestone, our mission doesn’t stop here. Sadly, this isn’t an isolated incident.

“To continue our fight against the low-welfare puppy trade and those smuggling puppies into the country, we’re keeping our crowdfunder open.

"Your donation will help us be there for all animals in need of rescue.”

Anyone with information about this incident can reach out to the charity confidentially on 03000 999 999.

The puppies are understood to be receiving ongoing care at the vet until they are well enough to be rehomed. Applications are not being taken.

Donations to the fundraiser can be made here.