‘Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for 15,000 dogs across its network of 20 rehoming centres in the UK and one in Dublin. Dogs Trust has a non-destruction policy and will never put a healthy dog to sleep. The charity also focuses its efforts on understanding dogs and sharing that knowledge with the wider public to prevent problem behaviours that can result in relinquishment or abandonment. They are working towards the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.’
‘A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®’. Dogs Trust’s famous slogan is as relevant today as it was when the phrase was coined in 1978. The charity cares for around 15,000 dogs of all shapes and sizes each year, many of which have been abandoned or are simply unwanted pets.
Dog Friendly Warwickshire and Dogs Trust therefore urge you to think carefully before introducing a dog into your family this festive period.
Emma Healey, Rehoming Centre Manager, says:
“There is no denying that we’re a nation of animal lovers, but sadly sometimes that love can mean some people may rush into getting a dog, without considering the true level of commitment involved. A dog can be such a rewarding addition to any family, but they do come with long-term responsibilities that will have a lasting impact on their new owner’s life, so it really is worth thinking about the other ways to help rescue dogs if now isn’t the right time to adopt.”
Puppies are readily available at the click of a button and Dogs Trust’s research shows online searches for puppies skyrocket by 44% in the countdown to Christmas, the team at Dogs Trust want to encourage people to make sure they are ready for the commitment of a new four-legged family member before becoming swept up in the excitement of Christmas.
Dogs Trust had 282 calls in January 2019 from people in the West Midlands alone, wanting to give up their dog. The charity is asking people to support rescue dogs in other ways such as becoming a volunteer, foster carer or sponsoring one of their beautiful dogs if now isn’t the right time to get a dog. Dogs Trust Kenilworth finds loving forever homes for more than 1,000 dogs each year and can care for up to 180 at any one time.
As we all know Christmas can be a stressful time! This is especially true for new puppies and new owners. During this time we have lots of visitors, changes in our routines and everyone at home to care for a new dog. The reality of the commitment comes in the New Year when everyone returns to work and school. This is when Dogs Trust sees a rise in the number of dogs being handed into centres.
Emma continues:
“Of course we would encourage anyone who believes a dog is for life and wants to enjoy the wonderful benefits a canine companion can offer, to visit us and give a dog a second chance to have the wonderful life all dogs deserve. We have plenty of dogs all looking for their special someone.”
Dogs Trust would always recommend rehoming a rescue dog, ‘there are thousands of dogs all shapes and sizes in their rehoming centres just waiting to meet that special someone’.
If you are in support of ‘dogs are for life’ and would prefer to buy a pup from a breeder then there is also some advice available on the Dogs Trust website on how to buy a puppy responsibly.
To find out more about the dogs looking for a new home and for advice on all aspects of dog ownership visit the Dogs Trust website.
