Stray dogs increasing strain on Salisbury rehoming centre
The Dogs Trust says it's seen a "massive increase" of strays coming into their care across the UK
A dog rehoming charity in Wiltshire says it's caring for more stray dogs, adding strain to its efforts to find our furry-friends a forever home.
The Dogs Trust, which has a rehoming centre in Newton Toney, near Salisbury, says it can have an average of 1,600 dogs in its care at any one time across the nation, has also seen more than 40,000 requests from owners to give up their pets.
With more strays being looked after by the charity, and the challenges of finding pets new homes already, it's increasing the pressure on animal charities to rehome dogs and to give them the care they need whilst with them.
Last summer, Wiltshire Council revealed it had collected 60 stray dogs in three months, with many left abandoned, injured and underweight and some had connections to hare coursing criminal activities.
Owners are urged to ensure that their pets are microchipped, ensuring that the information is up-to-date. A microchip with details that are out of date is considered the same as not having one at all and can lead to a fine of up to £500.
Why are so many dogs being given up?
Abigail Tate, Rehoming Manager at the Salisbury Rehoming Centre, explained the main reasons behind the significant number of handover inquiries.
“It can be for a variety of reasons. The cost-of-living crisis has influenced many owners who are unable to care for their dogs due to financial constraints. Some simply cannot afford the necessary medical treatments for their pets,” Tate said.
She also pointed out a “massive increase” in the number of stray dogs nationwide. Many dogs taken in by shelters arrive after being unclaimed from stray pounds, leaving shelters to step in where needed.
Progress in rehoming dogs
Despite the challenges, Tate shared the positive news that over 8,500 dogs have been successfully rehomed this year, bringing joy and companionship to their new owners.
“It depends on the time of year,” she noted. “Rehoming tends to slow as people prepare for a busy festive period, but we are very inclusive about who we rehome to. Even people in rented accommodation are eligible to adopt, as long as their landlords approve.”
Barriers to rehoming
While shelters work hard to find suitable homes for dogs, they face challenges from broader societal issues. “It can be difficult to find landlords who are happy to welcome pets,” Tate said.
She explained that the challenges shelters encounter in rehoming dogs often mirror the reasons pets are surrendered, with the cost of living and the financial cost of caring for a dog consistently acting as barriers.
As shelters remain at full capacity during Christmas, animal care organisations are urging potential owners to consider adopting a pet and providing a loving home to dogs in need.