Nearly 300 abandoned dogs given to charity in just one month from Christmas

ALMOST 300 dogs were abandoned and given to charity in a single MONTH since Christmas, it has been revealed.

The pandemic has seen large numbers of Irish take up dogs to keep them company during confinement.

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But now, many pets are being given away because owners ‘underestimate the commitment’ required to take care of a dog.

Dogs Trust Ireland revealed they received 297 surrender requests from people between Christmas Day and the end of January, seeking to give up their dogs to charity care.

This is a 73% increase from 172 requests received over the same period last year.

Now the charity is urgently calling for foster homes to deal with the influx of dogs.

Ciara Byrne, Director of Communications at Dogs Trust Ireland said: “While many of those who contacted us did so out of extenuating circumstances, sadly many told us they had underestimated them. commitment regarding dog ownership.

“We are also continuing to see the victims of unscrupulous breeders and families being ‘fished’ as misleading and often illegal online advertisements continue.”

Ciara added that dogs are often falsely advertised as ‘hypoallergenic’, which can lead to them being given away when families find out that’s not true.

One of the dogs in their care, Maggie, a 5-month-old Spaniel puppy, has been falsely advertised as a hypoallergenic Poodle hybrid.

Her family thought she would be the perfect pet, but their allergies flared up and as a result Maggie had to surrender to the Dogs Trust.

The charity believes that Maggie was raised in a poor environment due to her levels of anxiety and fear.

However, the lucky dog ​​has finally found a home and is now being raised by a family that hopes to adopt him.

Kate Horgan, Foster Care Coordinator at Dogs Trust Ireland continues: “We are urgently calling out foster homes across the country.

“Nutrition not only provides valuable experience in dog care, but it also plays a fundamental role in helping the most vulnerable dogs recover and giving them a better chance to find their permanent home, an incredibly rewarding experience for any dog ​​lover.

“If you’re over 18, maybe dog-friendly transportation to visit the vet and meet potential adopters, a safe garden and time to temporarily care for your pet a dog in need, we’d love to hear from you.”