As we draw closer to Christmas, we unfortunately see an increase in dog abandonment.
Internet searches for dogs are at their all-time highest at this time of year as people begin to look for a Christmas present for their loved ones.
Google trends in dog searches on the internet over the last 10 years
Research shows that the end of November signals the start of the online puppy buying-rush, where people mindlessly purchase puppies without serious consideration.
In 2014, the RSPCA reported that three dogs were abandoned per hour between 23rd – 27th December, while Battersea Dogs and Cats Home saw an influx in abandonment in March and April. Communications Officer Lisa Graham stated this is because the ‘Christmas presents’ had grown up a little.
The following are the ridiculous reasons given by dog owners to Dogs Trust because they decided they didn’t want their pups after buying them as Christmas presents:
- “He kept chasing frogs”
- “He looked different after we walked him in the rain”
- “He was too loving and needed too much attention”
- “I’m worried our toddler will copy him and poo in the garden”
- “He’s too playful – we haven’t sat down since we got him”
- “My dog is old and going to die soon”
- “He was scared of the cat next door ”
- “He barks every morning”
- “He wags his tail too much”
- “She seems hungry all the time and follows me around the house”
- “He kept coughing in the night and woke me up”
- “All the puppy did was sleep. We wanted a dog we could play with”
Dogs Trust ran a campaign in 2014 of prominent street artwork illustrating these poor excuses in the hope of showing the public that a dog is for life, not just for Christmas.
Artwork on a wall in Leeds for the “A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Christmas” campaign by Dogs Trust. Source
With the above in mind, many are still unaware of what to look and prepare for when getting a dog. It’s easy to get drawn to cute pictures and cheaper litter prices while searching the internet. A lot of irresponsible breeders portray professional businesses online.
Always consider these 10 points prior to getting a dog from a shelter or responsible breeder.
10 Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Dog
Don’t forget to share the infographic below on social media, Whatsapp and email with your friends and family. If we can all do a little towards spreading awareness at this crucial time of year, we can hopefully put an end to the influx of dog abandonment at Christmas.
