A sharp reminder that a dog is not just for Christmas has been issued by Dogs Trust Ireland, as they reveal an 82% increase in people surrendering their dogs. The charity reveals an astonishing 2,155 requests this year from dog owners who are seeking to rehome their pet.
The most common reason for owners to give up their dog is reported to be due to behavioural issues with the pet. Dogs Trust reminds people of the commitment needed to raise a dog, and there is a responsibility that comes with owning one.
Expressing concerns at the increase of so-called puppy farms, the charity also worries about where some dogs are being sourced. According to reports, thousands of dogs have been sold since the beginning of the pandemic, as major demand has seen prices skyrocket.
Ciara Byrne, Head of Communications at Dogs Trust Ireland, said, “We are pleading with the public not to purchase puppies in the run up to Christmas. Sadly, this is the most lucrative time of year for puppy farmers, and we know genuine dog lovers don’t want to fuel this vile trade.
“It’s not just the puppy that you buy that’s affected, it’s the parents of the puppies that are left behind in often appalling conditions that suffer the most and that’s why we launched our End Puppy Farming campaign in November. We want to show that the public wants to see an end to the horrors these poor dogs endure daily, all in the name of profit.”
Dogs Trust have revealed over 1,000 abandoned dogs are being cared for, although thousands more have been turned away due to capacity. This year, the charity is urging the public to sponsor a dog, rather than buying a puppy, as it can save lives and give dogs a second chance at life.
