Rise in Stray Dogs
Over 120 000 stray dogs were picked up by local authorities in the last twelve months – the highest in eleven years – the Dogs Trust has revealed.
New figures suggest that, on average, 345 stray dogs are picked up every day. More than one in 20 dogs – over 7500 in total - were unable to be re-homed and had to be put down, indicating a rise of 18% from the previous year.
The economic climate has been cited as a reason for more and more dogs being given up, as well as an increase in 'status dogs', which are subsequently abandoned. Often, when dogs are reunited with their families, they are still rejected.
The Dogs Trust is calling for the government to introduce compulsory microchipping, which not only has the potential to encourage people to take responsibility for their dogs and help identify those breeding dogs to fight, but could also save taxpayers roughly ￡20 million.
The charity has already begun to offer free microchipping at their 17 rehoming centres.
Adam Levy, manager of a rehoming centre in Canterbury, says: “When people realise how much commitment is involved to dog ownership, they lose interest. It's an easy option just to abandon your dog.”
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.
