Post-pandemic puppy boom continuing, says RSPCA
RSPCA recommends potential dog owners carefully consider the commitment involved.
The RSPCA has raised concerns that the post-pandemic puppy boom is continuing, after recording another increase in dogs being brought to its rescue centres.
Last year the animal rescue and welfare charity recorded 569 dogs under the age of one arriving in its care. This follows 355 dogs arriving in 2022 and 378 dogs in 2021.
The latest statistics mark a 50 per cent increase in puppies brought into their centres in two years.
The charity suspects that this increase is a continuation of behaviours during the Covid pandemic. During government restrictions there was a significant rise in people purchasing puppies.
However, because the country was often in lockdown, young puppies were not being socialised. This led to many puppies developing complex behavioural problems, which their owners were not able to care for.
Impulse buying also meant that many new owners were not considering the long-term commitment of dog ownership, resulting in many dogs with behavioural problems being relinquished to the RSPCA or rescued by its officers.
The RSPCA says that the recent increase in dogs arriving at their centres could be a sign that this trend is continuing.
The charity is recommending that anyone thinking about taking on a puppy considers the full time commitment involved. This includes the veterinary care, socialisation and ongoing support they need throughout their lives.
Particularly in the first year of their lives, puppies will need time dedicated to their training, socialising and exercise.
Karen Colman, head of the RSPCA’s animal welfare oversights team, said: “In 2023, we saw the highest number of puppies come into our care since the pandemic. It's a concerning and heartbreaking trend that suggests some people may still be drawn to impulse buying puppies, perhaps influenced by the lingering effects of the post-pandemic puppy boom.
“While bringing a puppy into your life can be incredibly rewarding, and we know many dogs have found amazing new homes since the Covid pandemic, it’s important to remember that they come with complex needs. Puppies require time, patience, and consistent training to help them grow into well-adjusted adult dogs.”
Image © RSPCA
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
