Dozens of animals have been seized from an address following reports they were being kept in unsuitable conditions.

Sussex Police’s rural crime team seized 54 dogs and two horses from a property in Hambrook, Chichester, on Tuesday (April 18).

Following a search by police officers, the RSPCA and the local authority carried out under the animal welfare act, vets concluded the animals “were not being adequately cared for”.

Among the animals were puppies that were just a day old.

An investigation is ongoing and a 57-year-old man will be interviewed voluntarily in connection with animal welfare offences in the next week.

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Sergeant Tom Carter, from the rural crime team, said: “We seized a large quantity of dogs and two horses in a poor condition with a variety of untreated medical conditions.

“These are now being cared for while we carry out a thorough investigation.”

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said that for many people, animals are a part of the family.

She said: “This case highlights why a dedicated rural crime team is so valuable in Sussex and is a good example of cross-agency and close partnership working.”