A RAID on a travellers site in Aveley was carried out as part of an investigation into the puppy trade, it has emerged.

A total of 82 animals were seized during the joint operation between the RSPCA and the police, which saw them swoop on a site off Ship Lane.

The RSPCA said 76 dogs, five cats and one horse, many in a poor condition and requiring veterinary treatment, were recovered and taken into its care.

Police arrested three people on suspicion of animal welfare offences. They are currently on bail.

A further raid was carried out at Grafton Road, Dagenham, last Tuesday, October 21, but no animals were seized there.

Six puppies were taken from another address, in Melford Avenue, Barking, during another search on the same day.

Two people were arrested by the Metropolitan Police.

The RSCPA has said there is no indication at this stage that the animals were stolen.

But the animal welfare charity is not ruling it out as it continues to investigate following a raid two weeks ago.

Since news of the recovery of the animals broke, the RSCPA has been flooded with calls from owners anxious to see if their missing pet was among them.

One concerned owner, who believes her dog was stolen, but did not wish to be named, said: “My Jack Russell went missing a year ago.

“I’d just love to know if my little dog was one of those that was recovered.”

The RSPCA said it appreciated the genuine interest in this operation from owners who had concerns that their dogs had been stolen.

A spokesman added: “During the course of the investigation, should any of the animals be identified or there is any suspicion they may be stolen, the RSPCA will put out a further communication.”