Waggy Tails Rescue 'stretched' after rise in dog abandonment

Waggy Tails Rescue is a small charity based in Wimborne and says it is now receiving calls for help from all over the country.

The charity rescues unwanted and abandoned dogs and aims to rehome them into new, loving environments.

Read more: Hundreds of dogs turn out for Santa Paws Market and Grotto

The charity's chairman, Ginny Roberts, explained: "The calls are now coming from further afield.

"They are coming from the Midlands, Plymouth and the other side of Portsmouth because other rescue centres are in the same boat.

"We are full to capacity and can't take another dog unless it's an emergency."

The charity predicted that there would be a spike in unwanted pets following the pandemic, but this rise came far later than expected.

Ginny explained several reasons for a spike in dogs being handed in.

She said: "It is partly to do with the cost-of-living crisis and the pandemic; we also get lots of dogs whose owners have died [or] gone into nursing homes and can't look after them.

"Many dogs are being brought in with behavioural issues.

"Some people are willing to accept advice and work with the dog, but if people haven't got the time or the inclination to do that, they give up the dog."

Waggy Tails are struggling to fund their work; cash donations have dropped, and they need more resources for fundraising activities.

Costs include vaccinations for £60, neutering for £140 and flea and worming treatment for up to £20.

Ginny said: "With so many mouths to feed at the moment, we are putting out a Christmas wish list for good quality dry food, tins of Chappie, Dentastix and soft treats.

She added: "Christmas is not a good time to buy a dog; people are busy, houses are busy, and a dog doesn't get a chance to settle.

"It may seem like a nice present, but it can backfire easily."

If you can give anything your gifts can be delivered to the Sanctuary, or you can call the office at 01202 875000 for advice on how to make a cash donation.