Three quizzed over 'puppy cruelty'
A husband and wife and a female family member were arrested and later released overtheir alleged role in what has been described as "deplorable acts of animal cruelty".
Over 350 dogs and 11 horses were rescued from "horrific conditions" at a farm in Myshall, Co Carlow earlier this year.
A joint operation led by gardai, Carlow County Council and the ISPCA swooped on the farm following an 11-day operation in April.
Dogs were found amongst dead canines and "countless horse carcases" at the quiet rural setting.
Those originally arressted are aged in their 40s, and are currently being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Carlow Garda Station.
Horrific
"Of the 351 dogs seized, all but three have been rehomed," said Carmel Murray of the ISPCA.
"It was an enormous task for any charity or organisation to take on but in the end it was very rewarding.
"Unfortunately, there were ten animals who had to be put to sleep following veterinary advice, but we are happy that we managed to save so many," Ms Murray said.
This was definitely one of the largest and most horrific acts of cruelty we have seen to date. We can't thank all those who helped us enough," she added.
The organisation's Chief Inspector, Conor Dowling, said even seasoned ISPCA officers found the conditions they encountered at the premises "truly shocking."