The RSPCA Isle of Wight branch is appealing for new homes for two shelter dogs in their care on National Dog Day (Thursday) as it calls for people to ‘Adopt not shop’ for new pets.
Research has estimated that around 130,000 dogs come into UK rehoming charities every year with dogs being surrendered by their owners for a variety of reasons including ill-health, housing, financial or time constraints.
Yet despite being a nation of dog lovers, with an estimated population of 9.6 million pet dogs in the UK, adopting a dog is not always an immediate choice with many turning to breeders to purchase a pet. Only 17 per cent of dog owners acquired their pets from UK rescue or rehoming centres compared to 31 per cent who acquired their dog from a UK based breeder of one specific breed. A further 22 per cent opted to purchase their dog from a private seller (PDSA PAW report May 2021).
The RSPCA Isle of Wight animal rescue centre, which rehomed 214 animals during the pandemic last year including 40 dogs, 85 cats and 30 rabbits, are currently looking for homes for two of its shelter dogs: Choji, a Border Terrier cross Lurcher and Puppy an Anatolian Shepherd.
RSPCA Isle of Wight Centre Manager Suzanne Pugh explains more:
“Choji is a tan coloured, eight-year-old Border Terrier cross Lurcher came to the shelter after his owner’s health sadly deteriorated and is now seeking his forever home. Choji is described as a “real character” with a kind, gentle nature and loves going for walks, although he needs to build his confidence around larger dogs. He is best suited to a home without other pets and preferably an adult only household or a family with children of a secondary school age.
“Puppy is a cream, Anatolian Shepherd approximately one year old and came to the shelter 7 weeks ago. He is a happy, healthy, larger than life boy who has stolen many hearts at the centre, with his affectionate, cuddly side. He is good with people yet still needs to learn how to remain relaxed around them and would benefit from living in an adult only home.
“Both dogs have undergone some positive reinforcement training and will require additional training support with their new owners.”
As part of its rehoming process, the charity ensures the animals in its care have been fully assessed by a vet and provided with any treatment before they are adopted. The dogs are also neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and wormed.
Suzanne added,
“There are so many benefits to adopting a shelter dog, not least the fact that you are caring for a dog that already needs support and a second chance at life.
“Many of the older dogs that come to us are already housetrained and know basic commands and you will also know that they have been thoroughly checked over at a veterinary hospital.
“What’s more you will have our continued support as you get to know your new companion.”
The charity has a dedicated page on its local Website ‘Find a pet’ for all sorts of animal adoptions.
The charity operates a careful rehoming process to ensure both the animals in its care and those seeking to adopt are the perfect matches and receive the right help and support.
More information can be found by visiting the Website.
Anyone interested in giving these dogs a loving home, is asked to fill out a perfect match form and email it to [email protected].
News shared by Claire on behalf of Isle of Wight RSPCA. Ed
Image: Erda Estremera under CC BY 2.0
