Johnny Depp and Amber Heard release surreal formal apology video for illegally smuggling their dogs

'When you disrespect Australian law they will tell you firmly,' says Depp

Amber Heard and Johnny Depp have released an official apology for illegally smuggling their dogs Pistol and Boo into Australia.

Heard and Depp appeared in a court in Australia on Monday, where the actress avoided conviction for bringing their Yorkshire terriers into Australia after pleading guilty to making a false statement on her immigration card about the dogs.

Heard received a one-month good behavior bond. If she breaks the bond she will be ordered to pay A$1,000 (£540).

In the surreal apology video posted to the Australian Government Department of Agriculture and Water Resources’ YouTube channel, the couple expressed remorse and instructed other visitors to respect Australian laws.

The video begins with Heard extoling the country. “Australia is a wonderful island with a treasure trove of unique plants, animals and people," she says. Depp adds: “It has to be protected”.

Later in the video, Depp appeared to make an indirect reference to the couple’s “firm” treatment from Barnaby Joyce, the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, and his threats to put the dogs down if they were not returned to the US.

“And Australians are just as unique, both warm and direct. When you disrespect Australian law they will tell you firmly,” Depp explains.

There have been reports from some journalists that Depp was on the brink of falling asleep in court.

Bianca Stone, Gold Coast Reporter, for 7 News Queensland, wrote on Twitter: “Heard’s defence still on his feet.. Depp keeps closing his eyes. Amber has elbowed him”.

The BBC also said Depp appeared close to dozing off on several occasions.

Australia’s highest profile criminal quarantine case has been dubbed 'Australia’s War on Terrior'.

Australia is known for its stringent quarantine laws designed to keep disease out of the country. Dogs arriving from the US must spend 10 days in quarantine.

A representative for Depp did not immediately respond to request for comment.