THE RSPCA is continuing to investigate after it recovered more than 80 animals from a travellers site in Aveley.

But the animal welfare society said there is no indication at this stage that the animals were stolen.

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

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

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

Since news of the warrant and recovery of the animals broke, the RSCPA has been flooded with calls from pet owners anxious to see if their beloved, missing animal was among those discovered.

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

"It's brillaint that the RSPCA and police have done this, i'd just love to know if my little dog was one of those that was recovered."

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

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

"At present we have been inundated with calls from members of the public who suspect their animals may be included in the animals taken from the location, unfortunately due to the vast number of calls received we are unable to make contact with everyone at this time."